The Hawk and The Widow (The Road to the Secret Initiative)

by Shogun78

Summary:

SHIELD Agent Clint Barton is tasked with training two of the world's most dangerous assassins. While developing feelings for one of the assassins, his very dangerous past starts to be unearthed. Knowing this was bound to happen, Barton must find a way to prevent everyone he cares about from being torn apart by his actions.

Chapter 1: The Hard Drive

Clint Barton, a former Marine and EOD tech, is now one of SHIELDs top tier agents. He was now facing one of the hardest missions of his life, aiding in the training two of the world's greatest assassins to become SHIELD agents. To say he was unprepared was an understatement but he was the one most qualified to help train them for many reasons. The main reason being that he recruited them.

Agent Natasha Romanov and Academy Cadet Yelena Belova are two of SHIELDs newest recruits. Neither of them like it though. It gives them more attention from senior agents, and even agents fresh out of the Academy. Clint tries his best to keep the attention off them but it is difficult given their past. Both females were operatives for the Red Room, a notorious organization known for kidnapping young girls and training them to be terrorists and killers.

Given their past, Nick Fury, the director of SHIELD, chose Clint to aid in their training because he has a similar background of killing. He doesn't like to talk about his past and everyone who knows Clint Barton knows that. He has shared some of his life with Natasha, but that's because they are partners and Clint felt that they had to be able to trust one another. Natasha was glad that Clint felt comfortable to tell her those things, but she feels more comfortable knowing that he won't push for any backstory on her or Yelena. Well, not on the history he doesn't already know.

LOCATION: Jalalabad, Afghanistan
TIME: 07:48

Agents Barton and Romanov were under heavy fire from rebels and tried their best to return fire.

"I thought you said you've done this before", Natasha yelled from her hiding post.

"I have done this before, but J-bad is just a shit hole in general. Besides, SHIELD couldn't get a drone overhead to see what we were walking in to. So stop blaming me", Clint replied. He was about a meter away from Natasha.

"Well, clearly you haven't or we would be on our way back to HQ already. This hard drive better be worth all this fuss."

"I'm sure it is worth it. We just have to survive the next five minutes."

"Do you even know what's on this damn thing?"

"It isn't my job to know what's on it. Just to get it back to SHIELD."

Natasha let it go after that statement by her partner. She understood the concept of not asking for more information than what was necessary for the mission.

"There's an empty house with a car behind it about ten yards forward. I'll distract them, you get yourself over to the house", Clint said while preparing an arrow that Natasha was unfamiliar with.

Over the course of their partnership, Natasha had seen a great multitude of Clint's trick arrows. She had seen explosive arrows, toxic arrows, electric arrows, even USB arrows. Whatever the hell those are used for, but the one he was currently fidgeting with was unfamiliar to her. She does think that Yelena would be more interested in it though. Ever since Clint recruited the two, Yelena has had a real interest in how the technology behind the trick arrows work.

"Nat", Clint yelled. "Did you hear what I said? Go to the house first and get the car started."

Natasha nodded and waited for Clint to fire the arrow. When he did, the arrow landed where the largest gathering of rebels was and exploded in a smoke screen and flash bang combination. After she got over her perplexity, she ran toward the house while Clint fired arrows at the guys in the upper floors of the buildings.

When she arrived, she hot wired the car and got it started. Now she was just waiting for Clint to get to her location.

"Clint, where the hell are you", Natasha asked over comms.

"I'm coming. The arrow's effect wore off sooner than I thought so I'm a little trapped."

"Do I need to come save you, again?"

"No", Clint said a little annoyed and with a little smirk. "Just be ready to drive when I give the order."

Clint fired one of his last trick arrows and took off running. He ran toward the car but was being followed by pissed off rebels and bullets were flying past his head. He really needed to fix that damn arrow. He saw the car and motioned for Natasha to start driving. After she did so, he ran after the car with the rebels still firing at the them. Clint ran after the car and finally managed to catch up to the door behind the driver and jumped in.

"So glad you could finally make it. What were you doing", Natasha yelled as she looked at the rear view mirror.

Clint met her gaze in the mirror, "I'm trying to survive being attacked by crazy rebels. What are you up to?"

Natasha rolled her eyes at him and drove faster. "Still have the drive?"

"Yep", Clint said. He raised the drive to the view of the mirror while simultaneously laying down in the backseat. "Lets go home."

LOCATION: The Triskelion
TIME: 17:17

The two SHIELD agents made it back to Washington D.C. safe and sound, minus a few minor scratches and Clint's black eye, courtesy of Natasha. They landed on one of the platforms and made their way inside the building. Clint went to the elevators to go up to Fury's office while Natasha went to the training center knowing Yelena would be there this time of day.

Clint got to the door of Fury's office when he saw Fury talking to Secretary Alexander Pierce. He knocked on the door and they both motioned for him to enter.

"Director. Secretary", He said acknowledging them both. "Romanov and I got the hard drive."

"Good work, Barton", Fury said, taking the hard drive. "Is Romanov at debriefing?"

"Not yet sir. She's visiting her sister before heading over."

Fury nodded and went behind his desk to plug in the drive. Clint was making his way back to the door when Secretary Pierce spoke up. "Where are you going, Agent Barton?"

"Sir? I don't have the clearance level to view these documents. I was told they are Level Ten."

"You do now", Fury said. "You are going to want to see this."

Clint turned and looked at the screen. "Yes sir."

Natasha had lost sight of Clint when he turned the corner toward the elevators. She did not really care though because she had to see Yelena. It became her tradition ever since she started field operations. That was one of the good things about having Clint as her partner and "supervising officer". He was very lax about the rules of returning from a mission. Normally, any returning agents would be required to head over to debriefing, but Clint allowed Natasha to see Yelena because he knows the concern the sisters have for one another.

She walked through the corridor, going past several agents who were not so subtly staring at her. She and Yelena had been at SHIELD for a year and a half now and they still were not accepting of the two Black Widows. She did care but only because she feels it may effect Yelena's safety; however anyone stupid enough to mess with the younger women would have big problems. First, they would deal with Yelena herself. Second, they would have to deal with Natasha, and third, they would end up dealing with Clint. Just about every SHIELD agent knew not to go toe to toe with Clint when it came to the Widow sisters.

Natasha finally made it to the training center to see Yelena flip an agent, twice her size, over her shoulder. That action made Natasha smile. All the male academy cadets thinking they could get the upper hand on Yelena had another thing coming.

What made Natasha smile more though was that Yelena was talking with some of the other cadets. She was making friends with them which is something she refused to do a few months ago. Yelena looked up and saw Natasha walking over to the group.

"You're back", Yelena said while wrapping her arms around her sister. "How was the mission?"

"It went great. Clint and I got shot at by a group of rebels protecting a hard drive."

"Sounds fun", Yelena said sarcastically. "How's Clint?"

"Has a few scratches like me. Plus a black eye I may have given him."

"Why did you do that", Yelena asked with a small laugh.

"He and I got into an argument on the jet and I may have accidentally hit him."

"What was the argument about?"

"It's better if you don't know."

"Belova", an older female voice said from behind the two. "Your training isn't done yet."

"Sorry ma'am", Yelena said, standing at attention.

"Agent Romanov", the woman said, "You and I haven't had the pleasure to formally meet. I'm Agent Melinda May. I've heard a lot about you."

"It's nice to meet you, Agent May. Clint speaks very highly of you."

Natasha was happy to say that was true. Clint does not think highly of most of the agents they work with. When Clint and Natasha found out that Yelena's instructor would be Melinda May, Clint immediately reassured Natasha that Yelena was in the best hands possible. He told her about the fact that May trained him, even more than Coulson. He also said May was one of the few agents he actually trusts with his life. Natasha felt that if Clint could trust May, than she could trust May too.

"Barton? Barton said nice things about me?"

"That surprises you", Natasha asked with a chuckle.

"I just wouldn't put Barton and compliments together", May replied with a small smile that quickly faded. Clint also said that May isn't big for emotions. It's what makes her such a great agent.

"I can understand that."

Meanwhile, Clint was still in Fury's office reading through the documents on the screen. He, Fury, and Pierce all had the same look of worry on their faces as they finished reading the last document.

"How the hell is this possible", Clint asked.

"We don't know. What we do know for sure is that this effects the safety of SHIELD, its agents, and its files", Pierce said.

Clint turned his attention to Fury. "Is this why you wanted me and Romanov to go in alone?"

Fury nodded. "You two were the only ones I trusted to get the drive. And because you two already knew the information on it, there would be no repercussions if you saw the contents."

"Based on the contents of the drive", Clint started. "Should we tell Romanov, Coulson, Hill, and May? They need to know."

"I agree, but the Security Council may not. If it doesn't directly involve them, they don't need to know", Pierce said.

"Then let's ask the Council. The others deserve to know", Clint replied more aggressive than he was intending.

Chapter 2: The File of a Ghost

The three men made their way to the Security Council briefing room. Once they arrived, Pierce contacted the four members of the World Security Council.

"What is this about Pierce? We are very busy", Councilwoman Hawley said.

"We have recently come across information that needs to be brought to the attention of the Council."

"What information is that", Councilman Rockwell asked.

"Nine and a half hours ago, two of our agents returned with a hard drive containing information regarding one of SHIELDs most dangerous protocols", Fury said.

"Directory Fury. Agent Barton. Good to know you are here", Councilman Yen said. "What information was recovered in this operation? And on what protocol?"

"Files regarding GHOST Protocol", Fury said, answering for Pierce.

The Council became silent and looked at one another. As if they were letting the information on what Fury just said sink in.

"Agent Barton and Agent Romanov recovered the drive in a rebel controlled village in Jalalabad, Afghanistan", Peirce said.

"How did these rebels get this information", Councilman Singh asked.

"As of right now, we do not know. We will have analysts looking in to it", Fury said.

"Good. Tell them only what they need to know. We don't need any unnecessary eyes or ears on this matter", Councilwoman Hawley said.

Before Fury and Pierce could acknowledge her orders, Clint stepped forward and in front of the Council. "Ma'am, I must interject."

"Go ahead, Agent Barton."

Clint looked at a pissed off but hiding it Fury before he answered. "There are four other agents we need to inform about the drive and its contents."

"Why? What do they have to do with GHOST Protocol?"

"Everything ma'am. These agents know the truth about the protocol."

The Council all contemplated Barton's words. They nodded to one another then turned their attention back to Clint.

"You can inform them, Agent Barton", Councilman Yen said. "But only those four agents. No one else."

"Thank you sir", Barton said. He turned and left the room just as the Council and Pierce ended the meeting.

Clint made it halfway down the hallway when he heard the quiet sound of footsteps following him. He did not need to turn around to know it was both Fury and Pierce. He knew he screwed up; talking when not being spoken to, especially with the World Security Council, his highest of superiors, was not something an agent of his knowledge should do. Fury has made it very clear that it was a privilege for any agent that gets to speak with the Council. And he just heavily abused that privilege.

"Barton", Fury barked. Clint took a deep breath and turned. "What the hell were you thinking? You have no right to interject the way you did."

"Sorry sir. I didn't mean to do that. It won't happen again."

"It. Better. Not. Now find Romanov and report to debrief."

Clint nodded and made his way back to the elevators. He went down to the training center, wanting to hit something. Or someone. He also knew that Natasha would still be there. When he arrived on the floor, he walked over the large training center. He looked through the window, and saw May, Natasha, and Yelena talking with one another. He smiled, knowing that they were probably talking about him because May has a lot of stories about his academy days. And Natasha has stories about him from their field experience.

"This will be fun", Clint muttered to himself.

He walked into the room and went straight toward the three women. They looked at him and started laughing. He rolled his eyes but kept moving forward.

"What did you tell them", Clint asked, looking at May who kept his gaze.

"Just about the time you set the field on fire while experimenting with your trick arrows."

"You're never going to let me live that down, are you?"

"Never", May said with a small smirk.

"Right. Anyway, Fury wants us to report to debrief", he said, looking to Natasha.

"Okay. I'll see you at dinner", Natasha said to Yelena.

"See you there. You're welcome to come too, Blackeye", Yelena said in a very teasing tone.

"I may just take you up on that Little Widow", Clint said.

Yelena stuck her tongue out at Clint while she walked away from the older agents. Clint laughed and shook his head. The three agents walked away from the large group of cadets and went to the entrance to the center. They practically got to the doors to ensure that no one would over hear. Yelena thought it was a little suspicious but did not think much of it.

"We have a major security problem", Clint said. "The drive we found in J-bad had intel on some of SHIELDs most top secret files."

"Should I be hearing this", May asked.

"You're one of the few agents who need to hear it", Clint said.

"What was on the drive, Clint", Natasha asked.

"A lot of information regarding GHOST Protocol", Clint said distressed.

"What? How", May asked with sudden worry.

"I don't know."

"Were there names? Targets", Natasha asked.

"Not that we could find."

"We? As in you and Fury?"

"Fury, Pierce, and I looked through it."

"Did you inform the Security Council? And tell Coulson and Hill", May asked.

"Yes, and Fury said he would inform Coulson and Hill, himself."

"Were there any other files found on the drive", Natasha asked. She glanced briefly at Yelena.

Clint and May both noticed her gaze. "I'm glad to say we didn't, but that doesn't mean more intel wasn't taken." Clint knew that did not make her feel better. "If you're concerned about you or Yelena's files, I'm sure they weren't taken. Very few have access to them."

"The same was said about the GHOST Protocol files. And our personnel files are less secure than that", Natasha said.

With that, Natasha walked out and went towards the debriefing hall. Clint tried to stop her but she would not stop walking. May put a reassuring hand on Clint's shoulder.

"She has a good point and she's just concerned about both their safety."

"No. She is just concerned about Yelena's safety. I can't say I blame her."

"The security breach wasn't your fault. Natasha knows that; she also knows that you are concerned about the safety of her and her sister."

"Still, I can't help but feel partially responsible. GHOST is a top level security protocol and a SHIELDs most dangerous one at that. If whoever hacked the system got it, there is no telling what else they got."

"Maybe Fury should have taken your recommendation on making GHOST a paper file only."

"Yeah, and your idea on making personnel files paper only."

"After meeting you, and seeing what Coulson and Fury did with you, I figured we couldn't let people have easy access to your file. They have to come in to the Triskelion where I would take them down."

Clint laughed. "Good to know you care May."

May smirked. "Get your ass to debrief. That's an order, Barton."

Clint smiled. "Yes, ma'am", Clint said. He saluted the older agent half-ass like and walked out.

Debriefing took less time than normal. Mostly because the agents who were debriefing Clint and Natasha weren't allowed full access to the operation and they could not know what was on the drive. After finishing, they both walked to the dining area. When the two reached the area, they walked to where Yelena was eating with two older cadets.

"Glad you both could make it", Yelena said.

"Of course we did", Natasha said. "Care to introduce us?"

"Right. Clint, Natasha, this is Bobbi Morse and Lance Hunter."

"It's a true honor to meet you both", Hunter said while shaking their hands.

"Hunter, sit down", Bobbi said. "Excuse him, he is a big fan of you both. Especially you, Agent Barton."

"Good to know, but don't suck up to me. It won't work", Clint said.

"Yes sir", Hunter said with a big smile that kind of made Clint feel uncomfortable.

After enjoying a nice dinner, the agents all went to their individual dorm rooms. Due to a special case made by Clint, Natasha and Yelena share a room to make themselves feel more comfortable. They were both thankful for him because of what he did. And all he has been doing to help them ease into a new life.

Clint drove through the streets of Washington D.C. to his apartment. The apartment he hardly uses because of how often he would be gone. He knew it would feel nice to sleep in his own bed again. Once he got to his apartment complex, he did a scan of the area. This has become a norm for him since he started at SHIELD. Making as many enemies as he does, it is good to be aware of his surroundings.

He did that the whole way up to his door. He did not notice anything out of the ordinary. He was thankful to have non-nosy neighbors. The ones he did talk to asked about his job and there were others that assumed that he was a cop because of his build and how he looked like a mess when he did come home. One neighbor, Alice Trivesky, an 84 year old woman, was perhaps his favorite neighbor. She would always bring him food and invite him over to have dinner with her. She would also occasionally "baby" him, like he was her own grandson. He didn't mind her doing that though, she did think that he was a detective.

When he got to his door, he stopped just short of reaching for the door handle. He looked in every other direction just to make sure. Something did seem off, his senses were telling him this. He grabbed for his gun, concealed by his jacket, and held it in front of him. His EOD experience taught him to not open a door without making sure it wasn't booby-trapped. He decided to skip the door altogether because he did not have the tools necessary to check. Clint went back outside and started climbing the balconies to his apartment balcony.

Landing softly on the balcony, he grabbed his gun back out. The balcony door was open and he knew he never leaves the door open when he is gone. Quietly stepping through the door and into the living room, he quickly scanned the room. Even though it was dark, he could still see and feel everything in the room. His heightened senses really came in handy in situations like this.

Standing in the middle of the room, he knew he was not alone. Looking to his left, he could feel a fist going right toward his face. He dodged it just in time to grab the persons arm and force him against the wall. The guy tried to fight back but Clint was holding him in such a way that the more he struggled, the more it hurt. It was a hold that May taught him; she called it the constrictor hold.

"Who are you", Clint asked angrily.

"Just a guy sent to kill you", the man rasped out. Clint's hold was getting tighter.

Clint pushed him even more against the wall. "Answer me again. This time be sure to put a little thought behind your answer before I get mad."

The guy winced in pain. "I'm Agent 246."

"With what organization?"

"I can't tell you."

"Then you're going to regret sneaking in to my apartment."

Before Clint could do anything, he saw a glimmer of something a few feet away from him. He turned and the outline of another large man, with an unknown weapon, was in his view. Clint pulled the first guy off the wall and used him as a shield. The second guy hit the first with the weapon and he hit the ground. Hard.

"Here we go again", Clint said.

The new guy tried to hit Clint the weapon, only Clint grabbed it first and they both fought over it. Once Clint was able to knock the weapon out of his hand, he got the guy in a sleeper hold. The guy on the floor noticed what was going on and grabbed the largest object he could find and hit Clint in the knee with it. The guy in Clint's hold got lose and turned to hit Clint in the head.

"You're going to pay for what you did, Barton", one of them said.

Clint did not know which guy said it because he was to busy grabbing his knife out and stabbing a man in the thigh. He screamed and Clint used the distraction to get up and knock the guy out. The other guy, the one who hit Clint in the knee, held the object he used on Clint and went to strike him with it. Before he could use it, Clint flipped him over onto something that shattered and Clint grabbed the guy's shirt to pull him up only to punch him in the face.

Clint was finally able to stand up and breathe clearly for the first time since he got home. He felt a throbbing pain on his forehead, knowing that is where the bigger guy hit him. He turned the lights on and went to the two bodies laying on the floor. He unmasked them both but didn't recognize either of them. He checked for any visible body markings to use to identify them. Unfortunately, Clint couldn't find any. At least, he thinks he did not see any. The adrenaline made his vision a little blurry.

Before he could think of doing anything else, an important thought came to his mind. The loud clatter of the fight had to have attracted some attention. And such attention would result in someone calling the police. This was going to be a big problem. He grabbed his packed SHIELD go bag from under his bed and left the apartment. The police would come across a serious issue if he stayed. His public file was mostly crap and if he had to tell them he was SHIELD, there would just be a world of problems.

He began walking away from the complex just as three police squad cars pulled up to the building. He pulled his hood over his head and walked to a hotel a few blocks away and stayed there. He had this contingency plan in place just in case this kind of situation happened. He had to let SHIELD sort out the issue.

After what felt like an hour of sleep, maybe because it was, he was woken up by a blaring alarm. He rolled over groaning and grabbed his phone. It was a SHIELD alert from Fury. Or as Fury likes to call it, a "get off your ass and get here now or I will come and find you" alert.

He dismissed the alarm and just laid the sore part of his head on the pillow. He groaned for a little bit but forced himself up. And then he instantly regretted doing it. The throbbing headache plus the lack of sleep gave him what he thought felt like a severe hangover without the numbness of alcohol from the night before. He knew he was going to have to take any and every moment slow throughout the day.

After taking a hot shower and getting dressed and getting yelled at by Fury over the phone, to which his head was very ungrateful, he was finally at the Triskelion. Every agent he passed was staring at him because of his bruises and limp. The walk from the apartment to the hotel didn't help him get over being hit in the knee by one of his attackers.

The walk to his office was a serious pain in the ass. However, this is one of the few times he was thankful to have a office. Especially because there was a couch he could lay on. He groaned laying his body down. There was a part of him that wished he had suffered a large wound on the mission so that he could be in a hospital bed with pain medications being pumped through his body. All of a sudden, there was a knock on his door he forgot he closed.

"Come in", he groaned into his pillow.

"Hey Clint. I was just wanting to know if you...Oh my god, Clint! What happened to you", Yelena asked.

"I got hit by a truck", Clint said. His face still in the pillow.

"Wouldn't you be more hurt? Or dead?"

"Oh yeah. That's just how I feel." Clint picked his head up and slowly flipped his body around. "I was attacked in my apartment last night."

"What!? Are you okay", Yelena asked stepping closer to Clint.

"Nope. Everything hurts. I got an hour of sleep and Fury called me in about forty-five minutes ago."

"Sit up. I need to patch you up."

"Thanks Yelena but it's not necessary."

"Get up or I will get May."

With a loud grunt, Clint sat up and watched as Yelena grabbed the first aid kit from behind his desk. "You would seriously tell on me to May?"

She walked to the couch and sat close next to him. "Yes I would."

She started applying ointment to his most noticeable bruise, the one on his forehead. She noticed that started to wince in pain.

"How did these guys get the upper hand on you? Your senses are insane."

"It was dark and I was really tired. If it wasn't for the idiot who hit me in the knee, I wouldn't have so many problems. I...OW!"

"Sorry."

Clint took a deep breath. "It's okay. I should have kept hold of my gun. It would have ended much more differently."

"It's not your fault Clint. Everyone gets hurt. You survived. That's all that matters."

"Thanks, Lena", Clint said calmly. He suddenly froze knowing what he said.

Clint looked Yelena in the eyes. She looked like the name caught her off guard, which for her is difficult to do. She and Clint have become good friends the past few months but not well enough for Clint to start using a nickname for her. He quickly realized her uneasiness and knew he should apologize for using a name she may be uncomfortable with.

"Sorry. I should not have said that", Clint said.

"No, it's okay Clint. Really", Yelena said with a sheepish smile. She finished dressing his visible head wound and put everything back in the first aid kit. "All finished."

"Thank you", Clint said, laying his head back. "Now I have to see Fury."

"Is that a good idea?"

"If I don't, he is gonna send Hill to find me. That is more trouble than I need right now."

Yelena laughed lightly and helped Clint stand up. He leaned on her all the way to the elevator. Due to Yelena only being a cadet, she could not go up to Fury's office with Clint. He leaned against the window and waved at the young Widow as the door closed.

As the elevator made it to the top floor, he limped all his way to the Director's office. He was dreading the conversation, or more accurately the yelling, to come. Clint really could not catch a break. All he wants is five minutes to himself so he can sleep. Getting to the door, he saw Fury looking out his window.

"Director, you wanted to see me", Clint said while taking a seat.

"Yes, Barton." Fury stood and looked at Clint. "I was considering scolding you for not being at work on time but then I heard what happened last night."

"Sir, I..."

"Don't. I'm not done. SHIELD is clearing up the mess at your apartment and the intruders are being transported here."

"Thank you, Fury."

"Somehow you managed to be a pain in my ass in less than 24 hours from coming back from a mission. You can leave now, Barton."

Clint slowly stood up and limped out of Fury's office. He really hated his job sometimes. This was going to be a very long day. He knew it. He had to find out who attacked him, what organization they work for, and if it may effect the safety of anyone else. Specifically the two former Russian assassins currently training.

Clint walked back to his office. He was hoping he would not pass May or Natasha on the way back. He was not particularly in the mood to be yelled at by the women for not telling them sooner. He was glad that Yelena did not yell at him. He needs at least one friend.

Upon entering his office, Clint noticed an unknown file on his desk. He sat down and opened it. He was very unsettled by its contents to say the least. There were mission reports dating back seven years and pictures of him in multiple of those mission locations. What unsettled him the most though were the pictures of Yelena and Natasha with circles around their faces. He had to find out who put the file here. As if the sudden fear of seeing the two Widows in the file gave him a boost of adrenaline, he got up and ran to the security guard at the end of the hall.

"Hey Matt, did you see anyone go into my office in the last ten minutes?"

"Sorry Agent Barton. I just got on duty. The new guy may have seen something."

"Thanks." Clint ran a few feet before stopping and turning to look at Matt. "What new guy?"

"The new security guard that was hired two weeks ago."

"What do you know about him?"

"Not a whole lot. He has a brother who's in the Army and both of his parents are dead. Other than that, I don't know anything worth saying."

"Radio for everyone to be on the lookout for the guy. If they see him, tell them not to engage and immediately call me."

"Yes sir."

Clint took off running toward the training center. Natasha and Yelena should both be there. He ran as fast as he could, ignoring the pain surging through his leg. There was so much going on in his head that he did not notice he ran into Maria Hill until he hit the ground. The collision took them both down.

"Sorry Hill."

"It's fine, but what is going on?"

"Are the Widows in the training center?"

"Yes. I just saw them."

Clint let out a sigh of relief. "Good."

"Clint, what is going on with you?"

"I don't know. I just found this file in my office that has old mission reports and pictures of the Widows", Clint said on the verge of hyperventilating from the pain in his leg and head, and fear for the sisters safety.

"Calm down, Clint", Hill said. "They're safe."

Hill let Clint lean against her as they slowly walked to the training center. Clint had to see for himself that they were okay. When they got there, Clint leaned against the window, watching the two women spar with one another.

"Did Fury tell you about GHOST Protocol?"

"He did. He also told Coulson." There was a few moments of silence. "Do you think the file you found could be related to the hacking?"

"I don't know. It's more likely than not because the mission reports are from GHOST."

"How are they involved", Hill asked looking at the two sisters.

"That's what I need to figure out."

"Agent Barton, I'm glad I found you", Matt said. He didn't realize the two agents were talking.

"Hey Matt. Find anything?"

"Just his jacket. His locker has been emptied out too."

"Who", Hills asked.

"The guy who may have put the file in my office", Clint replied. "He was a security guard who started here two weeks ago." Hill nodded in understanding. "Matt, get everything you have on him. Everything. Including a current address."

"Yes sir." Matt walked away from the two.

"You really think that someone SHIELD hired was the one who did this?"

"It wouldn't be the first time that we were betrayed like this."

"She was nuts Clint. This guy could've been hired to do this."

"Yeah, well someone is targeting the Widows. I need to figure out who's doing this shit."

Hill agreed with what he said then thought for a second. "What if whoever is doing this is targeting you and going through the Widows to do it?"

"That could be a possibility."

It had been a few hours since Clint finished talking with Hill. He did not talk to anybody since then, except Natasha. She had stormed in to his office, her face more red than her hair, and gave him a serious ear full. He inwardly cursed Yelena for telling Natasha about everything. If there was one thing he wished someone would explain to him, is why people were yelling at him for what happened the night before. He was the victim.

After she finished yelling, Clint decided to tell her about the file. To say her reaction was unsettling to Clint was an understatement. She did eventually calm down and they were able to have a sensible conversation. After that talk, Natasha did feel a little better, but Clint could still see the worry in her eyes. Yelena's safety was very important to them both, so they decided to tell her about it. At least they could be more watchful of their surroundings when they are not in the Triskelion. Much to Clint's dismay, Yelena's reaction matched Natasha's.

Now, he was just sitting in his office. He was finally able to have some time to himself since he got there. Looking through the personnel file of the "security guard", the files on his two attackers, and the file from his desk was not exactly his idea of relaxing though. He had to find a connection between the three. There had to be something. He knew there was something. He just had to find it.

Chapter 3: The Connections Found

It had been two more hours give or take but Clint was finally able to find a clue. He was not use to looking through papers for that long. He has not been giving administration or anyone who does this tedious work enough credit. He got up and to the Director's office.

"Director, I found a connection."

"What is it, Barton?"

"It starts with with my attackers, Andrew Heath and Charles Blane. They're hitmen who work for an organization called Poseidon's Blood."

"I have never heard of that group. Have they been on our radar?"

"No, but a group of hackers that work for them have been. The Rising Tide."

Fury thought for a second about what he said. "That name does sound familiar."

"It should sound familiar. The Rising Tide has been connected to a lot of our less secure files being released to the public."

"The Rising Tide is a hacker group that likes to release secret government files to the public so they can be more transparent", Fury said. "Why would this group be associated with an organization that sends hitmen to kill a SHIELD agent?"

"I don't know, but I've been thinking through some possibilities to that. The Rising Tide may have hacked SHIELD and took GHOST Protocol." Fury nodded and waited for Clint to continue. "By getting past the firewalls on GHOST, they could get easy access to its mission reports and photos from it. They could have also gotten easy access to the Widows' files."

"What about the rogue security guard?"

"Hill is looking in to him now."

"Good. Coulson has been gathering information on the Rising Tide for the past two months. I'll have him keep a closer eye on them. As for you, just keep an eye on the Widows. Do they know about the file?" Clint nodded. "Alright. We'll make sure to watch for anymore Poseidon Blood attacks. I cleared the mess at your apartment so you can go back."

"Thank you, sir." Clint walked to the door before Fury spoke again.

"One more thing, Barton."

"Sir?"

"I'm taking Coulson and Romanov to Malibu."

"Malibu? What's in..." Clint thought for a second. "Oh, never mind. I get it."

"That smartass is close to crossing a line after what he said to the Defense Council earlier. I need to be there when he does cross it."

"Hope you have fun, Fury. I know Nat won't", Clint said, laughing.

After returning to his office, Clint sat down and ran his hand through his hair. There was so much going on and it was all hitting at the same time. It was all connected, he knew it. His brain just doesn't have the capacity for all of it right now. His attackers were currently in a SHIELD holding cell, the fake security guard was in the wind, but on every law enforcement watch list by now, and SHIELD was fixing the holes in the programs the hackers used to make sure they can't get in again. He was so deep in thought, that the knock on his door actually startled him. Normally it wouldn't because his heightened senses would have told him that someone was at the door or he would have been in the nest, in the vents above his office.

Before he could answer, the door opened to reveal Melinda May. "Hey Barton."

Clint was not at all surprised that May just walked in. Unless it was the Director, May did not care about consideration especially when it came to Coulson and Clint.

"Hey May. What can I do for you?"

"You can do nothing for me. It's what I can do for you."

Clint quirked his eyebrow.

May rolled her eyes and sat down on the couch. "I'm here to distract you for a few hours. Maria told me what was going on with you. Also, why didn't you tell me about last night sooner?"

"Well May, as you can obviously tell, there is a lot going on. I didn't exactly have the time to tell you."

"And that's why I am here. You and I are going to head to the dining hall and then have a sparring session. Like the old days."

"Old days? It hasn't even been a decade yet. And you kicked my ass three months ago."

"I know but you have to admit, things were fun a few years back."

Clint smiled at the thought. "They were." Clint got up and went to the door. "Alright, let's go." May smiled and followed Clint out of the office.

Clint and May have always had that kind of friendship. When Clint first started at SHIELD, after his tour as an EOD tech, his training instructor was May. It was her first year training cadets. That is why he was so comfortable with Yelena being trained by May. He knew her training style and he knew that May would keep a close watch on Yelena because she already has an advanced fighting style. The only reason Clint knew May would keep an eye on Yelena was because May kept an eye on him when he started.

May did manage, however, to teach Clint a thing or two. His favorite was sword fighting. May was one of a few agents at SHIELD who was a master with a sword.

May had been one of the three agents at SHIELD that Clint could confide in. She knows things about Clint that no one else knows. When he graduated the academy, he instantly became an agent working directly for Fury, with Coulson as his handler. May still managed to stay in contact with him because of Coulson.

While the two agents ate in the dining hall, they began talking about their training time, some of the missions they had done together, and how the cadets training was going. Clint could tell that May had started to loose interest in training future agents and wanted to be back in the field. Understanding why she left the field, Clint knew it was better for her.

After eating, May took Clint to the training center and they started to spar with one another. They had been at it for a few hours, when they started to draw a crowd of cadets and agents. To that group, watching two of the greatest SHIELD agents in history, and the two of the most skilled, spar one another was very entertaining.

"You're holding back on me", May said after she broke free of Clint's hold.

"Didn't want to hurt you. Fury would not be happy if I broke SHIELDs best instructor."

May rolled her eyes at the comment. "Come on, Clint. You think you're good enough to take me down?"

Clint laughed at her remark. "We'll see, Mel." Clint knew the name would get her.

May scowled at him. "I told you not to call me that."

"I came up with the name. I get to use it."

Clint was planning on calling her another name, but he decided against it. The name Cavalry was one that touched May the wrong way and he knew it. He was the one agent, besides Coulson, that knew the truth behind the name. He could see May's face whenever someone called her Cavalry. Clint tried his best to shut down the name when he heard it used and warned whoever not to say it again. That was the one warning Clint gave to Natasha and Yelena about May.

May rushed at Clint and took him down. Hard. Even the cadets and agents winced as they saw it happen. Some of them began laughing at May's takedown. Among the cadets watching was Yelena, Bobbi, and Hunter. Once everything stopped spinning, Clint focused his attention back on May. She was on top of him, watching him closely.

"I thought I taught you better than this."

This time Clint rolled his eyes. "You did." He flipped her over and got on top. "You know I'm a fast learner."

"When are you going to use the skills I actually taught you then?"

Clint narrowed his eyes at her. "When you give me a reason."

May smiled and managed to wrap her legs around his neck. She flipped them both over and they rolled to opposite sides of the mat. The group watching only got bigger. Clint got back up and watched May do the same. Somehow, they were still going at it, even though it has been a few hours.

May rushed Clint but this time, he was prepared. He ducked under her kick and knew she was about to try and punch him. Feeling the punch coming, he moved slightly to the right, grabbed her arm, and flipped her. Once she was on the ground, Clint kept hold of her arm and kept one of his legs over both her legs to keep her from getting up.

"Give up yet?"

"Never", May said. She used her free hand to grab his leg and flip him onto his back. She flipped herself over to lay on her back and kick him in the chest. He grunted in pain. "Do you give up?"

"Yep", Clint said while trying to catch his breath.

May smiled and stood up. She offered a hand to Clint and he took it. As he stood up, he held his chest as a bruise was on the verge of forming. The crowd around the two agents were laughing the whole time.

Clint was not surprised that May won the fight. She practices every day and night. She even practices with the cadets. There was that, and Clint was holding back. May knew why he was holding back and would always tease him about it when they fought.

"I told you, I can handle your dark side", May said.

"Dark side? You have been spending too much time with Coulson. And, maybe you could have but I didn't want to risk it."

May kept his gaze for a moment then broke it. She didn't want to pull at that one specific thread anymore than she already had. Clint keeps things about his past to himself. He tells only people that he completely trusts about his past and even then, those who know do not know everything.

His short past at SHIELD before the two Black Widows came along is so secretive and dark, that he would not share unless absolutely necessary, or if he felt someone deserves to know. May is one of those few people who does know about this past. She was partly responsible for it. She was also not willing to bring it up with him unless she could quickly calm him down from the quick to appear PTSD.

"That was fun", Clint said. His hand still resting on the place where May kicked him.

"Glad you enjoyed it."

Clint started walking off the mat and went to the doors because May had a class to teach and he needed ice. "Your leg is clearly better", he heard a female voice with a Russian accent say. He smiled at himself and turned to face her.

"Not quite. May was just so stern to get me out of my office for a bit. I almost snapped my leg three times during the fight."

"How does it feel now?"

"Fantastic. You mind helping me to my office?"

"Sure."

Yelena grabbed his arm and put it over her shoulder. The walk to his office was mostly quiet besides the sounds of pain coming from Clint. When they made it, Yelena helped Clint sit on the couch and put his leg up.

"Sorry Nat isn't here", Clint said, looking at the younger woman. "I know you two train together around this time."

"It's okay", Yelena said. She took a seat on the chair behind his desk. "Her mission is important."

"I would take her place in training but May wore me out."

"You couldn't handle me anyway."

Clint laughed. "That's probably true but we will never know."

There was a knock on the door and Matt, the security guard, came in. "Hey Agent Barton. Cadet Belova."

"What's up, Matt", Clint asked.

"Am I okay to speak in front of Cadet Belova?"

Clint looked at Yelena, who looked at him. "She's fine. What did you find?"

"There is no current address on Jake McCoy."

"Who?"

"The fake security guard, sir."

Clint nodded. "How is there no current address?"

"Because the name doesn't exist."

"How can the name not exist and SHIELD not know", Yelena asked.

Clint thought for a second and then mumbled, "The Rising Tide."

"What, Sir", Matt asked.

"The Rising Tide. It's a hacker group. They're responsible for a lot more hackings that occurred recently." Matt and Yelena remained silent. "Alright Matt, thanks for the information. Keep the guards and agents on lookout until I say otherwise."

"Yes sir", Matt said. He turned and left the room.

Yelena spun in the chair and looked at Clint. "Was the Rising Tide responsible for the file that you found on your desk?"

"That's the prevailing theory. I found a connection between the group and my attackers. Plus, there are not a lot of people who can hack SHIELD but this group has done it in the past."

"Is there anything I can help with?"

"Not right now. We don't know a whole lot."

Yelena frowned. "Come on, I need something to do. Natasha is gone and I'm really bored."

Clint smiled at her childish behavior. Natasha told him that she would act that way sometimes whenever she wanted to feel included in something other than SHIELD training or education. "I can think of something we can do."

Yelena perked up. "What is it?"

"Do you want to help me create some trick arrows? Nat told me that you have been wanting to learn how I make them."

Yelena nodded.

Clint smiled and shook his head. He got off the couch and walked over to a file cabinet on the opposite corner of his office door and opened the locked top drawer. Yelena couldn't quite tell what he was grabbing out of the cabinet. To Yelena, it looked he was holding a box and was fishing out blue prints. He walked over to the desk and sat opposite of Yelena, letting her keep the spot behind the desk. Yelena watched Clint open the blue prints and put them in front of her.

"Have you ever heard of digital", Yelena asked with a smirk.

"Yes I have, but these are harder to steal when they are on paper. These designs are dangerous."

"Who would steal trick arrows from you, Barton?"

"I don't know. Maybe a psychopathic hunter who wanted to vaporize a deer."

Yelena's eyes widened. "You have arrows that can do that?"

"Like I said, some of these arrows are dangerous."

"Like the one that burned the field", Yelena asked with a smile.

Clint snorted. He knew May telling that story would bite him in the ass. "Yes, like that one."

"Can I mess with those ones?"

"No. Your sister would kill me."

Clint opened the box and showed the contents to her. The box had seven arrowheads, all labeled "Too Dangerous For Normal Use". She took the box and very carefully pulled one out.

"Why would you make arrows too dangerous to use in the field?"

"In case I come across a situation where I need one, like an alien invasion or just for fun", Clint said with a small smile. He looked up and saw her smiling too. "You can't tell anybody I have these. If Fury found out, he would make me use them. If May found out, she would hit me over the head with box."

Yelena laughed. "What can I help with?"

Clint grabbed a box of old non-trick arrows that he had next to his desk. "You can start by removing the arrowheads off these arrows."

Over the next few hours, the pair was working on making new trick arrows. They talked and laughed the whole time as they worked. Yelena was amazed at how intricate the design was for each arrowhead. Clint would not let her make some of the more dangerous wire connections in the heads, much to her dismay. If the connections were done incorrectly, the room could fill with smoke, poison gas, or the entirety of the floor would explode.

"You have to tell me, why did you have to go through the academy", Yelena asked while putting to new arrowheads in a box.

"Coulson and Fury wanted me to go through it. They said it would enlighten me to new things or some other shit like that", Clint replied. Yelena started to laugh.

"Did it teach you anything", she asked.

"Not really, but without it, I never would have met May. She taught me more than anyone else did, even Coulson."

"May is a good instructor", Yelena said. "She just haven't given me a real challenge."

"She will, don't worry. I thought the same thing when I started. She proved me wrong and did it in front of the whole class."

Yelena smiled. "How come Natasha didn't have to do the academy?" That question has been on her mind since they both started. Natasha did not know and May never gave a clear answer. She thought Clint could give her one.

"Because Fury saw no reason for her too. She had knowledge on most of the things the academy would have taught her. I know you do also, but Fury is still having Natasha complete certain classes in the academy. He also thought it best that you just go through it all."

"It's not fair though. We are only three years apart. And you're only two years older than Natasha."

"I know, but in my experience, three years can make all the difference. Nat also said that you two were trained different."

Yelena frowned at his words. "We weren't necessarily trained different. Natasha went through psychological conditioning. She was in the last generation of Widows to go through it. After that, they made a special chemical subjugation to use on the newer generations of Widows. It doesn't allow us to think for ourselves."

"Mind control?"

Yelena nodded but avoided eye contact with Clint. He was shocked at what she had just revealed. He knew that they had both gone through unspeakable things in the Red Room, but Natasha never told him that.

"I thought I went through psychological problems before I started here", Clint said quietly.

Yelena looked at him. "What?"

"Nothing. Spending three years in a desert bowl seeing major atrocities can really mess with a head. Especially a head already screwed up before joining the Marines."

A small smile made its way across Yelena's face. She didn't know why she was smiling; considering they are talking about how screwed up in the head they both are. She appreciated that Clint was trying to connect with her, and that he feels comfortable to tell her things too.

"Do you test these", Yelena asked, trying to change the subject.

"Of course I do. There have been a few that I haven't but I test most of them. That's how the field got destroyed. I was testing an explosive arrow. There was way to much power in it."

"Who all was there? Besides May."

"Coulson and Hill. A few cadets and agents too."

"Was Director Fury present?"

"Nope. He was at one of the science academy buildings. They were working on a secret project. If he was there, I wouldn't be here."

Yelena laughed lightly at him. "I wish I was there to see it."

Clint smiled back at her. "Security cameras caught it all."

"I'm going to have to see the footage. When can we test these ones?"

"Soon. There a couple of agents using the shooting range. They will be done in an hour."

Yelena nodded. "I guess I should leave and get some work done. One of my instructors has me writing a history report on the SSR."

"I remember that assignment. Just mention World War II and Captain America. You'll be just fine. Morris has some weird admiration for Captain America, just like Coulson."

"Good to know. I will see you in an hour."

Clint waved at her as she left.

After Yelena left, Clint put the arrow stuff aside and started looking in to Poseidon's Blood and the Rising Tide. He didn't want this to become a big deal but he had a feeling that it would because that's how these things always turn out. He has been at SHIELD for eight years and never once was able to finish something like this in a short time period.

The hour flew by quickly. Clint had spent the whole time trying to find information on the organization but didn't find anything. Deciding to ignore it, he found Yelena and they went to the shooting range. Clint put the arrowheads on the arrow bodies when they got there. Clint fired the first few arrows which showed promising results. He then handed the bow to Yelena and she fired one of the less dangerous arrows.

Clint noticed that she was struggling a bit when pulling back on the string and keeping the bow straight when she let go of the arrow. He started explaining the physics behind using a bow and arrow and why its harder to use than people think. He was telling her about draw force, kinetic energy, and elastic potential energy. Yelena started to get a bored look on her face and Clint could see it.

"The point of this to make sure the arrows work. Not to give a science lesson." Yelena looked at him plainly.

Clint smiled. "I know that, Yelena. It isn't a bad thing though to know the science behind our weapons, like the arrowheads." Yelena nodded. Clint grabbed a new arrow. "Here, try it again. I'll talk you through it."

Yelena got into position. Clint behind her and looked at her stance. He kicked her left foot lightly to tell her to move it. He angled her arm holding the bow slightly, explaining it puts less tension on the string and herself. Once she understood the stance, Clint stood back to let her fire the arrow. She fired the arrow and it hit the bullseye, and then the target melted.

The two hugged each other in excitement. They both immediately broke away with slight blushes on their faces. Before the moment could get any more awkward, a voice came over Clint's radio.

"Barton, is your radio on?"

"Yeah May. What's up?"

"Is Belova with you? I haven't seen her."

Clint looked at her with a smile while she avoided eye contact with him. "Yeah, she's with me."

"Good. Send her to the training center. She and I need to go over some techniques."

"Copy that, she's on her way." Clint kept his gaze on Yelena. A small smirk appeared on his face. "You didn't tell May you were going to be with me, did you?"

"I guess I forgot", Yelena said with a smile.

Clint shook his head. "You better get to the training center. May doesn't like it when her cadets are late."

Yelena ran out of the shooting range and went to the training center. She smiled at the thought of she and Clint hugging. She knew that she had feelings developing for Clint. Yelena didn't think it would be possible though. It's Clint Barton, someone who has been a mentor to her since she started at SHIELD a year and a half ago. She doesn't even know about SHIELDs rules regarding agents dating other agents. And what would Natasha think? This is her best friend, based on all the time they spent together, and her partner.

Before Yelena could think any further on the matter, she saw the training center entrance with May standing there. Yelena shook all thoughts of Clint out of her mind and focused on May.

Chapter 4: PTSD

Clint sighed as he picked up the last of his arrows from the shooting range floor that only ended up there because one or more of those arrows completely disintegrated the target. He smiled when he got to the one that Yelena destroyed. He enjoyed spending time with Yelena. Maybe more so than Natasha. She was funny, energetic, headstrong, and kind. Only when she chooses to be, that is. He could see himself having a life with her. He didn't know exactly when feelings developed, but they were there. He also knows that is frowned upon for agents to date other agents, but it doesn't mean that it isn't allowed.

Clint grabbed out his phone when he felt it buzz in his pocket. He saw he had a text from Natasha. He smiled, knowing that it would be some mean or cruel remark about her mission.

Romanov: I am so not ready to deal with this rich pain in the ass.

Barton: It's only been five hours since you left the Triskelion. Somehow, you're already annoyed.

Romanov: I have to go undercover as an assistant. Of course I'm annoyed.

Barton: I'm sure you'll do great. Fury knows you will do the job right. You're the perfect one to go undercover.

Romanov: How am I the perfect one?

Barton: Because you're female. That's his type.

Romanov: Fuck you, Barton.

Barton: Love you too, Romanov.

Romanov: Alright, I got to go. Need to prepare for tomorrow. Be prepared to hear from me periodically so I don't kill him.

Barton: Will do, Nat. Good luck!

Clint turned off his phone and sat down. He took a deep breath and held his head in his hands. There is so much going on right now. He was ready to just go home and sleep everything off. Fury was gone and so was Coulson. May was with Yelena and Hill didn't need Clint for anything. He decided to leave the Triskelion and not do anything until tomorrow.

Stepping through the door to his apartment, he let out a sigh of relief. Climbing up those stairs was a pain in his ass. And legs. The mess that the fight had created was still very present in the room. He did not have the energy to clean any of it up. Instead of focusing on the mess or any of the other things he should do, he made a beeline for the bedroom.

He let out a long and somewhat painful grunt as he face-planted onto the bed. He tried to scoot up but wasn't even able to do that much. Clint felt like every ounce of energy in his body just disappeared. Getting his ass beaten the night before, suffering a leg injury that he needs to get checked out, going to work, and fighting with May really wore him out. He didn't when but his slowly closed and that was it.

Clint's eyes burst open when he heard the blaring alarm of his phone. Turning his head over and turning off the alarm, he rubbed his eyes. This time, he decided he would take his time getting ready. It was clear that he blacked out last night because he was still in his clothes he came home in and his go bag was still on his bed.

Managing to drag his body off the bed, he shuffled to the bathroom. He looked at himself in the mirror. He really did look like shit. He turned the shower on and stripped off his clothes. He stepped in and let the hot water run down his body. It felt like all the stress was leaving his body. He probably spent five minutes standing like that.

After getting out and getting dressed in fresh clothes, Clint went to his kitchen to make a cup of coffee. He took a look around at the mess in his living room. Clint knew that he was going to have to spend an entire day cleaning and he was going to have to buy a new table and dry wall. Although, Clint couldn't figure out how the table broke. Did he flip someone on to it? He couldn't remember, but he was going to have to replace it.

Clint arrived at the Triskelion an hour later than he was supposed to be there. The good thing about having Fury gone is no one can yell at him about being late.

"Hey Barton, you're looking better today", May said.

Clint laughed. "Thanks May. It turns out all I needed was sufficient sleep...And two pain killers with my coffee."

May smiled back. "Just glad you're better. Maybe I can kick your ass again sooner than planned."

Clint smirked. "Good luck with that."

The two shared their smiles till they past one another and Clint went to his office. Sitting down at his desk, he was able to look at all the files with fresh eyes. He does wish he had another cup of coffee because the three he already had wasn't enough. And he didn't want to get up to get one.

Two, maybe three, hours pass by and Clint hasn't stopped doing research on Poseidon's Blood, The Rising Tide, his attackers, or the fake security guard. He really did think that SHIELD was better at doing background checks on new hires, but apparently not. As tedious as it was, looking through all the files was a nice and fresh change in pace. He should tell May, she had been thinking about doing something less stress inducing.

Even though he was deep in thought, he did hear the loud call over the radio.

"Barton! Come in! Barton!"

Clint quickly grabbed his radio; hearing the concerned tone of May's voice. "Go ahead, May."

"It's Belova. Something is happening. Get to the training center. Now!"

Clint didn't even respond as he ran out of his office and went to the training center. He had a major responsibility to Yelena, especially when Natasha is gone. Running past people who were moving out of his way and looking at him, he got to the training center.

There was a group of cadets huddled around Yelena. She was hugging her legs to her chest, not letting anyone get close to her. Bobbi and May were the only two who were crouched down next to her. He ran in to the room and got on his knees directly in front of Yelena. May got up and told the cadets to move back to give the two some space.

"What happened", Clint asked. He looked at May and Bobbi.

"I don't know. She and I were training and then this happened. Is she having a panic attack", Bobbi asked.

Clint didn't respond. He put his attention back on Yelena. He slowly put his hands on her arms so he wouldn't scare her. Feeling being touched, Yelena flinched and pushed his hands away. He looked at the others who were looking at him in worry. He moved forward and tried putting his hands on her arms again.

"Yelena, look at me." She didn't answer, but she didn't flinch away from him. "Lena, it's okay. You're safe. You have to look at me."

Yelena slowly looked up and stared at Clint with tear stained eyes. He could tell that she was still crying. Clint smiled softly at the woman. She quickly grabbed for him and crashed herself into his body. At that second, she broke down again. Clint rubbed small circles on her back to try and calm her down. Clint motioned to May to disperse the crowd of gathered cadets. May understood and began telling them to get back to training. Bobbi and Hunter were the only ones to stay.

"Hey Yelena, I'm going to have Bobbi take you to my office. Is that okay?" Yelena nodded slowly into his chest. He motioned for Bobbi to walk over. "Take her to my office", he whispered.

Bobbi nodded and helped Clint lift the woman to her feet. Yelena still had a tight grip on his shirt under his unzipped jacket. Clint frowned but reassured Yelena that she was okay and safe with Bobbi. Yelena's hand slowly let go of him and Bobbi guided her out of the training center and to Clint's office.

May and Hunter walked over to Clint as he watched the two female cadets walk out. By then, Hill had gotten to the training center. She walked over to join the group.

"Going back to Bobbi's earlier question, was Yelena having a panic attack", Hunter asked.

May and Hill looked at Clint. "I don't know. I might have an idea on what it could be but I'm not sure."

"Should I call Romanov", Hill asked.

"That's a good idea. Let her know that Yelena is with me", Clint turned his attention to May. "She may not be around for a few hours."

"That's fine. She's fifteen steps ahead of the other cadets when it comes to combat. Just take care of her, Barton."

Clint nodded to May then turned and left the center. He walked to his office and got to the door when he suddenly stopped. He could hear quiet sobbing and the Bobbi's voice on the other side. Clint knocked softly and opened the door. Bobbi stood up and walked over to him.

"She hasn't stopped crying since we got here."

"Okay. I'll handle it from here."

Bobbi nodded and left the office, being sure to close the door behind her. Clint walked over to Yelena and wrapped his arms around her. She quickly reciprocated and cried into his shoulder. Clint didn't do anything but let her cry.

Four months ago, Natasha had told Clint about Yelena having nightmares and showing signs of PTSD from the Red Room. She told him that when it was a nightmare, she would let Yelena cry on her shoulder until she fell asleep. Natasha also said that Yelena would suffer a panic attack during the day when a situation reminded her of the Red Room. Natasha would occasionally be able to see Yelena was about to have one and get her out of whatever situation caused it. She would approach the issue the same as a nightmare. Let Yelena cry on her shoulder.

"I'm sorry", Yelena cried. "I tried my best to stop it but without Natasha, it was to hard."

Clint shook his head. "You have nothing to be sorry about, Yelena."

Yelena continued to cry in to Clint's shoulder. Clint laid his chin on her head and began to rock them back and forth. He didn't know why, but his mother used to do that with him when he was young. Especially after one event. Clint hated that Yelena was suffering from memories from the Red Room. He wished he could do something to help, but how could he help when he too suffers from extreme PTSD.

Setting his feelings for the woman in his arms aside, he just held and rocked her. After fifteen minutes or so, Yelena started to become silent. Clint started to notice her being quiet and looked down at her. Her eyelids were closed and her breathing was even. Clint ever so slowly moved his arms from around her and he slowly laid her down on the couch. He was glad he didn't wake her.

He sat down at his desk and began working on what he was doing before he was called to help Yelena. Clint would periodically look at her, and sometimes he would just watch her sleep. He was knocked out of his thoughts when his phone buzzed to life. He smiled, seeing a text from Natasha.

Romanov: This guy is driving me nuts! I am ready to shoot him in the face right now and get it over with.

Barton: Hang in there, Nat. If it was me, I would have killed him already. And if he is being that much of a jackass, then use a widow bite. Or flip him over.

Romanov: It's Natalie, actually. Natalie Rushman. And 'hang in there'? Who says that? Anyway, I am undercover as an assistant, Barton. He has been flirting with me every chance he gets.

Barton: Then shoot him and tell Fury he got handsy.

Romanov: That is not a bad idea. How's Yelena? Hill told me what happened.

Barton: She's fine. Sleeping on the couch in my office.

Romanov: Thank you for taking care of her. I was really hoping she wouldn't have an attack while I was gone.

Barton: Do you want me to do anything for her, Ms. Rushman. Not dropping that by the way.

Romanov: Damn you Barton. No, she'll be fine with you. She trusts you. Just please be around if she needs you.

Barton: I will Nat, don't worry.

Romanov: Thanks Clint. I gotta go. He has us going to the Grand Prix in Monaco.

Barton: Have fun.

After a while, Clint noticed that Yelena began to stir. He got up and walked over to her. She stirred a little more before sitting up.

"Hey, sleepyhead", Clint said with a chuckle. "How are you feeling?"

"Good", Yelena said softly.

"Do you remember what happened?" Yelena nodded. "Do you want a bottle of water?"

"Something stronger would be nice, but sure", Yelena said with a smile. Clint laughed and grabbed a bottle of water he had ready for her. "Thank you", she said while he opened the bottle.

Yelena reached for the bottle, then noticed the jacket over her. She knew it wasn't hers because the SHIELD symbol on the patch was the older model. She gave Clint a quizzical look while he just smiled at her.

"I didn't have any blankets laying around and you were shivering."

"I wonder why. You keep your office cold all year long." Yelena looked at him. "Thank you."

Yelena sat straight up against the arm of the couch. She did however keep the jacket draped over her. Deep down, she enjoyed having his jacket instead of a blanket. It smelled like him and that's something she took great comfort in.

"How long was I out?"

"An hour and forty-five minutes." Yelena almost jolted off the couch if Clint didn't rest his hand on her leg. "Hey, it's okay. Hill and I already talked to your instructors."

Yelena eased back down on the couch. Without thinking about it, she put the jacket back over her. "I don't mean to be such a burden."

"A burden", Clint asked a little shocked that she would say such things. "Yelena, you are not a burden to me, or May, or Hill, or to anybody else."

"Yes I am", Yelena said defensively.

That's when Clint realized why she said what she said. Natasha had talked about the insane and inhumane conditions the Widows go through at a young age. When they would get sick or injured, they weren't allowed to make any kind of deal about it. She said that to them, it was a sign of weakness and weakness wouldn't be tolerated.

Clint guessed that Yelena thought she was a burden to him and the others because of the they were trained. She thought that she would be punished for not being tough through it all. It makes sense to him now, though, why Natasha was the only one who knew. Yelena didn't want to seem weak to SHIELD.

Clint took her hand in his and squeezed it. "Yelena, SHIELD doesn't do any of that Red Room punishment shit. We value the safety and health of the agents and cadets."

Yelena's nerves eased a little more at his words. "Thank you for helping me."

"Of course." The two sat in silence for a few minutes while Yelena drank from the water bottle. "Do you want to talk about it? It's fine if you don't."

Yelena looked at him for a second. "Not right now. I need time to process."

Clint nodded. "Well, I'm here if you do."

"I just might take you up on that offer. Have you heard from Natasha?"

"I did about forty-five minutes ago. We talked some about you and how her mission is going."

"How is it going?"

"She wants to die." All of a sudden, Clint started laughing.

"What's so funny?"

"I found out what her undercover name is."

"What is it?"

"Natalie Rushman."

"Natalie Rushman? What kind of name is that?"

"It's not that bad compared to a name she used on our third mission together."

"And what was that one?"

"Fanny Longbottom."

Yelena quirked her eyebrow then burst out laughing. When she calmed down, she had to ask. "Did you have any stupid names?"

"Nope. Never needed one. I was either looking through a scope or using a bow. When I did go undercover, I would be that one guy no one talked to."

Yelena smiled. "I think we should play a joke on Natasha when she gets back."

Clint smiled back. "That's a good idea. I have a bunch of empty folders we could use to make a personnel file on Fanny and Natalie. We should also recruit May."

"May? Agent Melinda May? Hardass Melinda May?"

Clint chuckled. "May plays the hardass at times but she is a real legend when it comes to practical jokes. "

"Seriously? You have to tell me the stories."

Clint began laughing and started to tell her the stories about the joker May. Yelena would burst out laughing at certain stories. And Clint would talk about some jokes May even played on him. He would tell Yelena that he would try and get her back; only for May to come back at him. Yelena was laughing the whole time, which was music to his ears. Their hands still squeezing each others hands and yet neither of them minded.

After a little while, Bobbi and May came by to check on Yelena. They were both happy to see that she was okay and smiling. Bobbi took Clint's place and he went to talk to May outside the office. Both Clint and Yelena missing the contact of their hand hold. Clint told May about the PTSD from the Red Room and the effects that it has on Yelena. He was careful not to tell May to much because it wasn't his place. He felt it best that Yelena and Natasha be the ones to tell her.

"When can she get back to her cadet duties?"

"It's up to her. Natasha says that Yelena bounces back pretty quick."

"Can you ask her? She responds better to you than me."

Clint nodded and went back into his office. Bobbi stood up and moved so Clint could take the spot he had on the couch next to Yelena.

"Do you feel like you can start doing things now?"

"Yeah, I can do it."

"Alright, good. May is waiting outside." Yelena and Clint both stood and went to the door.

Yelena looked like she was about to say something but instead grabbed Clint in for a hug. "Thank you", Yelena whispered in his ear.

"You're welcome", Clint whispered back. He reciprocated the hug and he felt Yelena tighten her hold on him.

Yelena quickly unwrapped her arms from around Clint's neck and walked out. She could see out of the corner of her eye that May and Clint nodded to one another before the older agent started following Yelena.

Yelena has been so grateful to Clint for all that he has done to help her and Natasha. He did his best to ease their transitions into SHIELD life; but today felt different. Today wasn't only a day for Yelena was grateful to have Clint in her life, but she felt truly relaxed and comfortable to be around someone who wasn't Natasha.

Most of the remaining hours left in the day practically flew by for Clint. After Yelena had left, Clint tried to focus back on his work. It became increasingly difficult because his mind kept going to Yelena. He just couldn't for the life of him get her out of his head. That is, until saw the news rerun of a certain billionaire playboy on Capital Hill making a fool of everyone on the Defense panel. Clint really couldn't believe that Fury was considering him for the initiative.

Before he knew it, there was a knock on the door. Before he could answer, the door opened to reveal Yelena. She walked in with a small smile and sat down at his desk. Clint took a look at his clock. Eight forty-five. His mind really did wander.

"Hey Clint, can we talk?"

"Of course. What about?"

"Earlier you said that I could tell you about my panic attack."

"Okay. Do you want to talk about it?" Yelena nodded. "Go ahead", Clint said as he got up to close his office door.

Yelena explained everything that had happened. She told him about how training would sometimes make her mind flash back to the Red Room. She told him how the Widows were treated during the "practice" interrogations, especially with the younger girls. She also told him the girls would be used like toys for games when it came to the men who "helped" with their "training".

Clint's blood was boiling at this point. He swore that anyone who touched him would burn their hand because of it. He hated what Yelena was saying and he wanted, so bad, to hold her. He could see that she was on the verge of tears. Clenching his fist under his desk, Clint was able to let Yelena finish saying what she did.

"Do you tell Natasha about these", Clint asked.

"I tell her about some of them but not all. I wouldn't know how to tell her about the nightmares."

Clint frowned and looked away. "Thank you for telling me. I imagine it wasn't easy."

"I don't like remembering what they did to me, Clint."

Clint had an impulse to reach for her hand that was resting on his desk. He managed to resist it. He was amazed though that Natasha didn't have these issues. Or maybe she just didn't show them.

"I should probably go. I promised Bobbi a rematch sparing session and I know you want to leave."

Yelena stood up and turned. "Hold on, Yelena." The woman turned back to look at him. "I know SHIELDs rules restrict you from having any contact with Natasha while she is undercover; it's one of the few rules I hate. Since Natasha isn't here, I want you to know that you can call me if you have a problem or nightmare. I'll be here if you need me."

Yelena smiled. "Thank you, Clint."

Clint stood up and walked around the desk. He grabbed Yelena into a hug and she easily reciprocated. They both had smiles on their faces. The hug had come so easily to them now. Yelena's trust in Clint took time to grow, but recently, it was just there. She could finally say that she trusted him with her life.

The two broke apart and Yelena walked out of the room. Clint watched her as she did so, he officially knew that he had feelings for the Widow. He doesn't know how to act on them, though; he doesn't want to lose his friendship with Yelena.

Clint decided it best to pack up and leave for the night. He was finally making great strides in his research on Poseidon's Blood and The Rising Tide but he needs a fresh brain for it if he is going to find something to act on. Putting the files in a drawer, locked by his fingerprint, he gathered up his other things and left.

Chapter 5: The Missions

Clint returned home at a decent hour, which is a first for him, and went straight to work on cleaning his apartment. He was trying to decide if he should go in late the next day and stay up late cleaning or just stay home entirely the next day. Everyone knew that he deserved some time off. After a short time of contemplation, Clint decided he that he would decided in the morning.

He continued to work until one in the morning. That was not what he was planning on doing at all, but it just happened. On the bright side, he did manage to get a lot done. He didn't know that the fight had caused so much damage, that he would have to replace much of his stuff. It didn't bother him too much though, because he was meaning to replace some of his old furniture. Clint also now had the chance to hide weapons throughout the apartment; a tip Natasha had given him more than once. It's a good thing that Clint is great at home improvement.

Clint woke up a few hours later, much to his dismay. He must have forgotten to set his alarm because he should have been up an hour ago. He checked his phone and he was right, he forgot to set an alarm. The multiple texts from Hill, May, and Yelena were proof enough. He also had texts from Natasha. The latest one saying that he has to see the news.

He was confused but turned on the TV in his bedroom anyway. He was shocked right away by what he saw. A disturbance occurred at the Grand Prix in Monaco. Someone dressed as an intervention official walked on to the track and attacked the racers. What didn't surprise Clint one bit was who the guy was targeting. He quickly grabbed his phone and to text Natasha.

Barton: I just saw the news about Monaco. You alright?

Romanov: I'm fine. Please tell Yelena the same.

Barton: Will do. Who's the guy that interfered?

Romanov: Don't know. My cover is keeping me from being able to look in to him. Fury and Coulson are flying to some old SHIELD warehouse. Fury says that there are crates that can help with the mission.

Barton: I wish I could help.

Romanov: Barton, you're helping a lot by keeping Yelena safe while I'm gone. I have to go. My business is needed and I have to help prepare for a birthday party in two days.

Barton: Have fun, Nat. You're doing the world a favor by putting up with him.

Romanov: He's dying, Clint. Lay off the jokes for a bit.

Barton: Fine. You help him then the jokes are back on.

Romanov: Agreed.

Clint shook his head with amusement. He couldn't believe that Fury was actually considering this guy to be a part of the initiative. And Natasha was the one deciding his fate in it; he understands why though. Natasha can be brutally honest when she has to be. It reminds him of May.

After some time of contemplation, Clint decided he should go to work. A big part of him wanted to say screw it and stay home. He could finish the work on the apartment and get an actual security system. Taking a quick shower and getting dressed, Clint got to the Triskelion just in time to see five quinjets taking off from two landing bays.

"What's going on here, Hill", Clint asked as he walked up to the superior agent who was supervising the jets.

"I got a call from Fury. He said it's time to start gearing up the Helicarrier."

Clint's eyes widened slightly. "Damn. Did he say who has been assigned to it?"

Before she answered, Hill turned and walked toward the doors inside. Clint was on her heel. "Not yet. Are you worried about moving from the vents of your office to the vents of the Carrier?"

Clint smiled at her joke. "It's not so much about me."

Both agents stopped when they stepped inside. "You're concerned about Natasha being reassigned?"

Clint nodded. "For her sake", he said looking behind Hill. She turned to see Yelena talking to Bobbi while the two watched the quinjets leave. Like children watching a plane take off for the first time.

Hill looked back at Clint. "I'm sure it will be fine. You know Fury doesn't do anything without a reason. And who knows, Yelena could be assigned to the Helicarrier when she becomes an agent." With that, Hill walked away from Clint and past the two cadets.

Clint walked to his office and sat down at his desk. Opening his desk drawer, he took two pain pills and rested his head against his hand as his elbow rested against the desk. He opened the locked drawer, grabbed out the files, and began working.

That became his routine for the next five days. He would go to work, look through the files, check any open internet media for signs of Poseidon's Blood or The Rising Tide, and then go back to his apartment.

He occasionally heard from Natasha. She said that the birthday party went to hell real quick and that she recorded a lot of it. She also said that her cover broken the next day. She even sent Clint a picture of the man laying in a giant donut while eating a donut.

Natasha told Clint the whole situation. She even told him about Coulson's threat to the genius. Clint laughed to himself. The threat was a one-hundred percent genuine Coulson threat.

Clint soon got back to work but ended up hitting a dead end. There's only so much that can be found on an organization that doesn't want to exist. That made him think, why would they want Clint dead if they didn't want to be discovered.

Knowing that there was nothing else he could do, he gathered all the files he had on all of it, and put them back in his drawer. When Fury will return, he was going to have to give the files to him.

Once he finished gathering everything he found in the past week and a half, his phone started buzzing. He looked at it to see Coulson's name. Clint quirked his eyebrow because he knew that Coulson was still in Malibu. Picking up, Clint listened as Coulson explained the situation. The last word is what made Clint start to move. Order. He knew he couldn't ignore it or have a choice because the orders were coming from Fury.

Clint grabbed what he needed and radioed for tactical agents to be on landing bay five in ten minutes to help Agent Sitwell. Clint had one thing he had to do first before going to the landing pad. Clint walked to the dining area and scanned the room for Yelena. He saw her eating with Hunter and Bobbi.

"Hey, cadets."

"Agent Barton, good to see you. Care to join us", Hunter asked.

"I can't unfortunately. Yelena, can we talk?"

"Sure". Yelena got up and she and Clint walked a few feet away from the table. "What's going on?"

"Coulson called me a few minutes ago and said that an 0-8-4 just appeared in New Mexico. He wants me there to watch over it."

"Oh", Yelena said a little hurt. "Okay."

"I just wanted to tell you in case you have a panic attack, May knows how to help you."

Yelena nodded. "Thanks for telling me before you left."

Clint smiled at her. "Of course I would. I don't know when I will be back or when Natasha will be back."

"I'll be fine, Clint. You can go."

Clint smiled at her and ran out of the dining hall. Dodging agents and cadets. Yelena walked back to the table just as Hunter stood up and walked away.

"Where's he going?"

"To get seconds", Bobbi replied. She looked at Yelena and smiled. Yelena looked up from her tray and met the other woman's gaze.

"What are you smiling at?"

"You."

"And why are you smiling at me?"

"You like Agent Barton, don't you?"

"What! No! Why would you think that?"

"Oh please. I see the way you look at him. You have been looking at him like that more and more recently, Yelena. You know you can't deny it." Yelena started to blush while Bobbi's smile got bigger. "I knew it. You do like Clint."

"Fine", Yelena sighed. "It's true", she said quietly.

Before Bobbi could reply to what Yelena admitted, she saw Hunter walking back with a full tray of food. She didn't think that Yelena wanted Hunter to know. "This isn't over."

Yelena rolled her eyes at Bobbi. "Of course it's not", she muttered.

LOCATION: Puente Antiguo, New Mexico
TIME: 13:47

Clint arrived in New Mexico with two other quinjets loaded with agents and gear to examine the 0-8-4. Stepping off the jet, Clint instantly walked to where Coulson was standing as he watched agents start to set up the observation base.

"Do we know what the 0-8-4 is", Clint asked.

"No. All we do know is that its radiation levels have never been seen before."

"Anything else?"

"There are markings on it. Now that everyone is here, hopefully the markings can be examined and we can identify what it is. Oh and it's a hammer."

Clint quirked his eye brow. "A hammer?"

Coulson nodded. "Yeah, I didn't know what to say either."

"How was California?"

"Fantastic. Just like everyone said it would be."

"Did you get to watch Super Nanny like you threatened", Clint asked with a chuckle.

"She told you about that?"

"Why wouldn't she? Now answer the question."

Coulson laughed. "No. He snuck past my security and before I could do anything, I was tasked to this."

"Anything fun happen on the way here?"

"Yes, actually. It was at a gas station."

"Please elaborate."

As the time passed, Clint began to question why he was ordered to be on the mission. There were scientists that were examining the hammer, some agents were watching radiation levels, weather patterns that oddly changed because of the hammer, and redirecting planes to not fly over the site. Even Coulson had something to do. He just got back from the small town that was maybe fifteen miles away from the site with a truck full of science equipment he didn't recognize.

There was no need for a field agent, like Clint, to be watching over the hammer. Clint kept asking himself the question whenever he would walk the perimeter of the site. Who would be stupid enough to break into a secured SHIELD site and try to steal something no one can lift. That question was soon answered when Coulson's voice came over the radio.

"I want eyes up high. With a gun. Now!"

Clint quickly reacted. He ran to the armory and reached for a sniper rifle. He stops just short of it and quickly grabs the bow just is hanging just below the rifle. Running out of the trailer, Clint jumps into a crane bucket and lifts him into the air. Once in position, Clint readied himself to fire the bow.

"Barton, talk to me", Coulson said over the radio.

"One shot, one kill, sir. Just give me the word." Clint could see as the guy causing all these issues was making his way through all the agents and guards. It amused Clint ever so slightly watching it unfold. "You better call it, Coulson. I'm starting to root for this guy."

Clint waited for Coulson to respond. A part of him knew why Coulson didn't respond; he was too busy watching this guy go through all these highly trained agents to get to a hammer.

"I want to see this", Coulson said. Clint eased off some of the tension on the bow string.

Clint watched as the guy stepped directly toward the hammer with a smirk on his face. He placed his hands around the grip of the hammer and lifted. But the hammer didn't budge. Clint was still at the ready with the string pulled back, waiting for Coulson to give the order.

"All agents surround him", Coulson said. At that, Clint slowly put the bow string back into resting position. He watched as the smirk on the guy's face faded and became one of defeat.

"Who is this guy", Clint asked silently.

One Week Later...

Clint and Natasha were both back at the Triskelion from their missions. They were successful, to a point, but all either of the agents wanted more than anything was to sleep. Natasha went straight to Yelena when she got back and the two sisters shared a hug. Clint and Coulson, returning a day or two after Natasha, were going over what they had seen in New Mexico. A hammer that no one could lift and some jacked guy beat his way through almost every agent on site to get to the hammer. That same guy turning out to be a mythological Norse god who practically destroyed the small town.

SHIELD hasn't seen anything that weird since a giant green monster fought another monster and tore apart Harlem.

Looking at the D.C skyline while going up the elevator, Clint was contemplating what he was going to do when he got to his office. The 0-8-4 had kept his mind distracted from not being able to find anything else on Poseidon's Blood. He didn't know if anyone could find much more than he had. Unlike SHIELD, with its giant building and logo on the side, Poseidon's Blood knows how to stay in the shadows. He hoped that Hill had done some research on the group while he was gone.

He arrived on the floor his office was located on and made a beeline for his office. Closing the door behind him, he sat down and rested his head in his hands. Pulling out the files he put away before he left, he looked at the post-it he put on it. Give to Fury. His eyes looked at the note but drifted to a dried and faded boot print on his desk. Clint immediately stood and went into surveillance mode.

He scanned the room for any inconsistencies. Not noticing anything, he looked up and saw a ceiling panel wasn't where it should be. The Nest. Clint stepped onto his desk, moved the panel, and climbed up into the vents. The vents was an easy way to access every room in the building that wasn't under top level security. The boot print wasn't there when he left, so whoever did it, did it after he left.

Clint walked as quietly as he could through the vent. His footsteps made clanking noises, so he knew that the intruder, if there still was one, would be alerted to his presence. Walking a few yards further, Clint came across a little set up he wasn't expecting. There were some small bags of chips, SHIELD textbooks, and a blanket. Clint crouched down and picked up one of the bags. Noticing the flavor, Clint smiled to himself. He knew exactly who had been in his nest.

Climbing back down and walking out of the office, Clint walked to where he knew a certain blonde assassin would be at this time. He saw the woman talking to another young woman he didn't recognize. Clint walked to the women and waited for them to notice him.

"Agent Barton, it's a true pleasure to meet you", the unfamiliar woman said. Clint was slightly taken aback by her English accent. "I'm Jemma Simmons."

"It's nice to meet you too, Simmons. I've heard a lot about you. In fact, I use some of the technology you developed when making my arrows."

"Really? I didn't know that. My friend Leo Fitz helped me create it, too. He will be glad to hear you're using it."

Clint smiled at her. "Anyway, I need to borrow Cadet Belova for a moment."

"Of course", Yelena said. The two walked a little distance away from Jemma. "What's up?" Clint held up the unfinished chip bag. "Oh."

"Care to explain this", Clint asked with a smirk but a hint of seriousness.

"Not really. How did you find that?"

"Your boot print was on my desk. And the ceiling tile wasn't put back in its right spot."

"I'm sorry, Clint. I know I should've asked you first before going into the nest."

Clint's smirk faded and he became serious. "You shouldn't go into my office at all without my knowledge. You know the sensitive material I have in there."

"I know. I just wanted some time alone where no one could find me. The nest was the only place I could think of going."

Clint's face softened. "It's fine. Just tell me next time. I don't need May or Natasha running around the building looking for you."

Yelena smiled and nodded. "Thank you, Clint". Clint smiled back and handed her the bag of chips.

Waving at Jemma, who smiled and waved back, Clint walked back to his office. He walked in and saw his redhead partner sitting at his desk with a bottle of vodka and two glasses. He smiled at the Widow and sat down opposite her. Natasha opened the bottle and poured. She handed a glass to him and they clinked the glasses together. It was the end of the day, they deserved to share a drink.

"Where did you get the bottle", Clint asked.

"A gift from Stark."

"A gift? For what? Lying to him?"

"I don't know. All I do know is that there is one person in the world I need to share this bottle with right now." Clint smiled at her and took a sip from the glass. "This week has sucked", Natasha said after taking a sip.

"Yes it has", Clint said, raising his glass. "You never told me, how did the rest of the mission go?"

"It went...", Natasha paused for a moment. As if trying to figure out how to put the events in words. "as normal as it could go."

Clint laughed. "Then it seems like I got the good one."

"You watched scientists examine a hammer."

"And I watched a guy kick our agents' asses."

"You think Fury might consider him for the initiative?"

Clint looked down at the liquid in his glass. "I don't know. It would make sense. He's the perfect description of what the initiative is."

"Do you think he would consider us", Natasha asked as she refilled her glass.

Clint laughed lightly. "What do we have to offer it? The Avengers Initiative was made to bring together a team of heroes to fight the battles the world can't. Do you think we're heroes?"

"Come on, Clint. We have a lot to offer it."

Clint quirked his brow. "Really?"

"Yeah. You and I and Yelena can take care of ourselves. All three of us can put up a hell of a fight. And we don't need a iron suits to do it."

Clint smiled. "Amen to that." The two clinked their glasses together again.

The rest of the night went just like that. Clint and Natasha would drink and talk. Understanding one another was a separate issue. Once half the bottle plus some was gone and both agents were ONLY slightly buzzed, Natasha slowly stood and left the office. Clint watched as she tried to walk in a straight line to the elevators. She caught the attention of a few agents who were leaving. She was stumbling around, very little, but it was amusing to them. She made it to the elevator and went to the cadets dorms floor.

Clint rubbed his eyes, trying to figure out what he should do. He didn't feel all that drunk and could risk driving home. Or he could sleep on the couch in his office and go back to his apartment in the morning after drinking a pot, or two, of coffee. Deciding the second option was best, Clint stood up from his chair, teetered a bit, then walked and laid down on his couch; the sound of the rain outside lulling him to sleep.

Chapter 6: Nightmare From Hell

Notes:

Sorry this chapter was later than intending. Hope you all enjoy

Darkness over took the desert. The hills, mountains, and brush all blended in with the sky. The only light visible was the stars. Not even a moon was present. Two lights appeared on the ground, moving. Suddenly, the moving object exploded. There was another object behind the first. The light of the explosion revealed the moving objects to be United States Marine Corps issue humvees.

"Shit", the driver of the second humvee yelled. He swerved to dodge the blown up humvee that was now flipped over. "What was that?"

The soldier in the passenger side turned to look behind them. "I don't know. You think they have a night watch?"

"That's not what our intel said."

"Because our intel is always right", the passenger side soldier said sarcastically.

"Watch it rookie", the driver said. "Your skills are great but you don't have the experience necessary to make fun of our informants."

"Yes sir." The soldier looked behind them again. "I don't see...wait, what is that?" The soldier grabbed a pair of binoculars.

"What is it, rookie?"

"I see a reflection of something in the hills."

"You can see a reflection in the hills when there is barley any light out?"

"Yes sir, I can. I can't explain how, but it's something I've always been able to do since I was a kid."

"Alright then, what do you see?" No answer. "What do you see?" Still no answer. "Barton", the driver yelled. "What do you see?"

"Turn the humvee off."

"What?"

"Turn the humvee off", Clint yelled.

The superior turned the humvee off and looked at the young soldier. Before he could say or do anything, Clint raised his finger to stop him from talking. Clint was still looking through the binoculars at a reflection in the hills he couldn't quite make out.

Clint quickly put the binoculars down and grabbed his bag. He told the other guy to do the same. They both grabbed their bags and rifles, hopped out of the jeep, and ran for cover in the shrubbery. Just as they ducked down, an RPG missile hit the humvee and blew it up.

Clint shot straight up. He was breathing frantically and tried his best to remember where he was. Feeling the softness of a couch, Clint breathed in deeply and exhaled slowly. The memories were starting to come back. He remembered that he and Natasha had a drink, or five, the night before and he didn't want to drive home.

It was two-thirty in the morning and Clint laid his head back down on the pillows. Knowing sleep wouldn't come easy, he just stared at the ceiling. As if studying the design of each ceiling panel, his mind continued to go back to the nightmare.

At least that is what it was to him. Clint hasn't had a nightmare from his Marine days in a few years. This nightmare was so sudden to him too. The last one he had was when he had to go to Iraq on a very classified mission under GHOST Protocol.

Fury ordered him to make it look like a military operation and it didn't bode well for his mind when he finished it. Clint has been so careful recently to know if a mission would cause a nightmare, so he could mentally prepare.

After staring at the ceiling for a little longer, it clicked in Clint's head. The mission that he and Natasha went on in J-bad to recover the drive must have caused this to happen. And he knew why too. Clint had spent one month in J-bad disarming bombs with his overwatch and they had seen so much. Clint wondered how his overwatch was doing. Last he heard, the guy joined the Air Force. Then his mind went back to the memories.

Dead kids, body parts, and pools of blood all covered the streets of the village. Those memories always came back to haunt him. The first nightmare he ever had after getting out was when he was on a mission with May. She had to force him awake because he was yelling and thrashing in bed.

After helping him catch his breath, May sat down with Clint and waited for him to talk. He explained the nightmare and May in turn told him about Bahrain. That was the night that Clint knew he could trust May with his past.

He slowly started to come around more and more, explaining more of his nightmares to May and occasionally Coulson and Hill. Fury already knew it, somehow. Clint still had trust issues with most people at SHIELD then, and wouldn't really talk with them. There was that and Clint was a rookie agent that Fury constantly used; which made a lot of other agents jealous.

He didn't know how, but his thoughts lulled him back to sleep. He woke up hours later and his head was pounding ferociously. He doesn't even remember drinking a whole lot. Actually, he doesn't know how much he drank last night with Natasha.

Clint got up off his couch and grabbed a bag behind his desk. He always kept a bag of spare clothes and a toothbrush for just such an occasion. The clock on his phone read six-fifty three. He contemplated going home but knew it best not too because he had to be at a meeting at seven-twenty. Running to the showers in the gym, more like jogging to avoid vomiting, he quickly stripped down and got in; letting the water run all over him.

After he finished showering and getting dressed, he went to the nearest room that had a coffee pot. He was going to need a lot in order to get through the meeting. Clint stood there as the coffee brewed and kept blinking to stay awake.

His mind wandered to the nightmare as he watched the liquid fill the pot. Clint's mind had wandered so much that he didn't even notice Coulson walk into the room. Coulson tried to speak to him but Clint never replied. Coulson placed a hand on his shoulder and Clint immediately jumped away. Coulson quickly stepped back and watched Clint catch his breath.

"Sorry, Coulson", Clint said, just as the coffee finished brewing.

"It's alright Clint. You okay? You were staring off into space", Coulson said, handing two coffee cups to Clint.

He smirked at Coulson and filled the cups. "I'm fine. Just a bit distracted is all." Knowing how Coulson likes his coffee, Clint filled the cup with cream and sugar. "I don't know how to handle it."

"What is it? The Widows? Poseidon's Blood? Maybe I can help", Coulson said, taking the cup Clint was offering.

The two men walked out and started going to the briefing room. "I don't think you can. Or anybody can at this point."

A few minutes silence before Coulson looked at Clint. "Nightmares", Coulson said plainly.

Clint nodded while he took a sip of his coffee and avoided eye contact with passing agents. "I had one last night. If it weren't for the hangover, I would tell you all about it."

Coulson laughed lightly. "Who were you drinking with?"

"Natasha."

"So you spent last night here, didn't you?"

"Yep. Slept on my couch. I forgot it was dangerous to drink with her because she can hold her alcohol."

Coulson laughed harder. "You seem to have forgotten Naples."

Clint started laughing too. "Coulson, you are the only one out of the three of us that remembers that night. I'm lucky if I remember the name of the bar we went too."

"At least you were awake. Romanov drank till she passed out cold on your shoulder. You carried her out of the bar and all the way back to our hotel."

"I don't remember that."

"Of course you don't."

"How far did I carry her?"

"I wish I knew. I had a lot to drink that night too. I got us lost a couple of times walking back."

Clint was slightly impressed at how normal Coulson made that sound. Clint would not have a straight face while saying something like that.

The two men entered the briefing room that was filling with other agents. Among them was Hill, who was taking lead on the meeting. They sat on opposite sides of the table just when Hill started to talk.

Throughout the meeting, Clint would check his phone for texts from Natasha. He loved a hungover texting Natasha. She would hardly make sense and when she did, it would be curse words between normal words. She would curse herself for drinking, curse him for drinking too, and curse the hangover itself. Her texts were the only thing getting him through the meeting.

There has been a few instances where Clint almost burst out laughing and would interrupt the meeting. He managed to hold it in.

All the agents were able to leave when the meeting concluded an hour later. That was the most excruciatingly boring meeting he had ever been in. Then again, Clint felt that way about every meeting.

"Hey Barton, I need a word", Hill said when she saw Clint get up.

"Sure", Clint replied. He would be lying if he said he wasn't skeptical about what she wanted to say. "What do you need, Hill?"

"You and I need to talk about Belova."

Clint quirked his brow and sat down. "What's wrong?"

"Graduation's coming up and you know what that means."

Clint's nerves eased and he rolled his eyes. He knew exactly what she was going to say. "Are we seriously doing this, Hill? You know Yelena is more than qualified to be an agent."

"I know, but this is how we do things with our cadets. Evaluations by long term agents is how we determine who become field agents."

"I am aware of those rules but you know Yelena has met all the requirements necessary. And besides, the rules state that the agent doing the evaluation must be an impartial third party."

"Barton, the reason I want you to do Belova's evaluation is because you have more experience with her than anyone else. You've aided her in her education, training, and you've been helping her when Natasha is gone."

Clint sat back in the chair and thought about it. He understood why Hill was choosing him to evaluate Yelena. He was the one who brought the Widow's into SHIELD and that meant that he was responsible for them. The only problem is that Clint isn't exactly an impartial third party.

"Barton, you still with me?"

Clint blinked and looked at Hill. "What? Yeah. Yeah, I'm listening."

"Will you be Cadet Belova's evaluator?"

After staring at Hill for a second, Clint stood up. "I'll do it."

"Good. You're dismissed."

Clint walked out of the conference room with a cold cup of coffee. He went to the break room where he and Coulson had been in before and poured himself a new cup. This hangover was really kicking his ass. He knew the next time Natasha had a bottle of vodka waiting for him, he would stop at three. Maybe four.

Unfortunately, the hangover wasn't the reason Clint almost forgot everything in that meeting; it was his damn nightmare. Everything was so vivid. He remembers the whole thing. The darkness, the desert, the explosion, all of it. What makes Clint hurt even more is that he knows how the night ends. Clint was glad he woke up before the worst part of that night happened.

"I hate you", said a low female groan.

Clint looked at where the voice came from. "What?"

"I said I hate you. Why did you make me drink all that?"

Clint laughed at his partner. "I did not make you drink that much last night. That was all you."

Natasha gave Clint one of the most frustrated and annoyed looks he had ever seen. "Suka." Natasha walked away after that.

Clint laughed and smiled; knowing exactly what it meant. He just didn't want to give Natasha the satisfactory of thinking she hurt him.

Clint slowly walked back to his office. He kept his eyes down to avoid having to chat with anyone. He was six feet away from his office door when heard someone was right on his heel. He stopped in his path, turned, and looked into the eyes of the young woman he has very strong feelings for and whose future is in his hands.

"Yelena, what can I do for you?"

Yelena smiled at him. "Can we talk in your office?"

Clint nodded and walked to the door. He opened it and let her walk in first. Closing the door behind him, Clint walked to the couch and laid down with his head propped up on one of the arms of the couch. "What's up?"

"I was wondering if you wanted to do some shooting practice later?"

"You just want to blow something up, don't you", Clint asked with a smile.

Yelena blushed lightly. "Yes."

Clint smirked and shook his head. "I'll think about it. I have other things I have to do."

"Like what?"

"Important paper work. I have to get it done."

Yelena rolled her eyes. "Come on, you just don't want to do it because you're hung over. We can go to the range when my head doesn't feel like it's the target."

Yelena smiled at his comment. "Can you bring the trick arrows?"

This time Clint rolled his eyes. "Sure, but not all of them. I need some for the field."

"Okay."

The room became silent for a bit until it was broken by Yelena yawning.

"You tired", Clint asked sarcastically. A little bit of a serious question.

Yelena nodded. "I didn't get a lot of sleep last night."

"Nightmares?"

"Not this time thankfully. I just couldn't fall asleep. So I snuck out of the room and trained in the gym until two in the morning." Clint shook his head. "What? I couldn't think of anything better to do."

"I'm not judging", Clint said with a smile. "I would have done the same thing. You just need to get as much sleep as possible. Especially with graduation coming up. Superior agents start coming to the Triskelion around this time to see which cadets can qualify for what position. You're going to want to make a good impression."

"I know. I hope I get to stay here with you and Natasha."

Clint looked at her and smiled. "You do know Natasha could be reassigned, right?"

"Yes, I do. I just want to be assigned to a place I know. And have people there that I know."

"You will do great wherever you end up, Yelena. I know it."

"Thank you, Clint. I really appreciate it." Yelena stood up and walked to the door.

"Hey Yelena." Yelena turned to look at the man on the couch. "Make sure you get some sleep later, okay?"

Yelena nodded and left.

Clint spent the next few hours laying on the couch. His coffee cup was sitting on the floor after he finished the contents and starred at the ceiling. He didn't know when, but Clint fell asleep.

The desert. He was back in the desert, in the humvee. It's happening again, he knew it. On que, the humvee in front of him exploded. Shit. Clint tried to wake himself up but it's like the nightmare kept drawing him back into it.

Clint and his C.O jumped out of the humvee and took cover in the shrubbery. He wished the nightmare ended there, but that's where it began. The two Marines were then under fire from the same men who destroyed their humvee. The two started returning fire.

"Sir, we need to get out of here. We have the cover of night. Let's use it", Clint yelled.

"No", his C.O replied. "The fires from the Humvee's give them all the light they need, Barton. We stay here until the fire breaks. Do you understand?"

"But sir, it could be daybreak by the time that happens."

"No. We stay. Do you understand me?"

"But..."

"Do you understand me", the C.O barked.

Clint practically became as white as a ghost, even under the hail of gun fire. He felt like a dog that was just kicked. Scared, angry, ignored, and put in his place. "Yes sir."

"Good. Now watch your ammo."

The two of them returned fire for what felt like an hour. That's all Clint could remember about the time of that night. Clint knew what was about to happen. The most painful part of that night that gives rise to something much worse. The two soldiers were firing back but were conserving ammo by this point. They didn't have a lot to start with but now they had one magazine left, each.

Clint was looking through the scope of his M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle and was in the process of thinning out the herd of unknown attackers. He wished he had his sniper rifle. Suddenly, the other end of the scope was suddenly covered in liquid red. That's when time slowed down.

Clint looked up from his scope to look at his C.O. The body of his superior officer was laying flat against the dirt and his head on its side. Clint's eyes were staring at the open eyed face of his dead superior. Clint's eyes ever so slowly moved from his eyes to bullet hole in the center of his forehead.

Why? Why was this happening? Clint's consciousness was still very present. He just couldn't wake himself up. He was watching the death of his mentor, again.

Clint put his gun down and crawled to the body of his C.O. He tried shaking the body that he already knew was dead. As if there was a pinch of hope that he was still alive, Clint shook the body harder. After a moment longer, Clint stopped then broke down. He rested his head on the dirt covered body as he cried.

It all finally stopped. The blackness of his mind was a true blessing. The unfortunate part is that he still knew how that night ends. Memories he wishes he could forget. Clint's eyes slowly opened. The brightness of his office was a little overwhelming; he put his hand over his eyes until they settled. He sat up and let out an exasperated sigh.

"Barton", said the voice on the radio. Clint recognized it as Coulson. "Do you copy?"

Clint reluctantly grabbed his radio. "Yeah, Coulson."

"I need you to meet me in the interrogation level. It's urgent."

"On my way", Clint said after letting out a yawn.

Chapter 7: The Talks

Notes:

This chapter is more talking than anything else, but it is vital to the story. Please enjoy.

Clint let out a groan and got up off the couch. He walked out of the office and went to the elevators. Stepping in, he said 'interrogation' and the elevator closed. The interrogation floor was restricted to most at the Triskelion except field agents on assignment, strike teams, and someone who has a high clearance.

Clint watched the D.C skyline as he went up. He began pondering why Coulson was calling him to the interrogation floor. Arriving on the floor, he stepped off the elevator and saw Coulson standing outside a room and talking on the phone. Clint walked over to him and waited for him to get off the phone.

"Coulson, what's going on", Clint asked as soon as Coulson hung up the phone.

"Did I interrupt something", Coulson asked. "Your tone is saying that I did."

"You ruined a terrible nap."

The two agents began walking down the main hallway of the floor. "I would apologize but I don't know if you're kidding or not."

"I...Uh, never mind. What's up?"

Coulson handed Clint a tablet with the faces of his attackers on it. "They finally talked."

Clint looked at him shocked. "They did? What did they say?"

"Nothing important. Just that they would only talk to you."

"Me? Why?"

"They wouldn't say. They said they will only talk to you then they stopped talking. Fury said it was up to you if you wanted to go in and talk with them. We can find another interrogator, like Romanov, to go in and make them talk."

"No, I'll go in myself. They can give me information on Poseidon's Blood that I wasn't able to find."

"Copy that", Coulson said as they made it to one of the interrogation rooms holding one of his attackers.

"Oh and Coulson, don't tell Natasha or Yelena about them talking. I'll do that myself."

Coulson nodded. Clint walked into the room and Coulson walked through the door of the viewing room. "Be ready", Coulson said to the two agents also in the room. "We don't know what this guy is capable of doing."

Clint walked into the room and nodded to the agents watching the guy. He pulled out the chair opposite him and sat down. "Andrew Heath. It's a true dishonor to meet you. Or more accurately, talk to you without you trying to kill me."

Heath smiled at him. "Agent Clint Barton. I was hoping you and I could chat."

"That's great. I have questions to ask you. And your partner; if you aren't cooperative."

"I will be happy to answer your questions, Agent Barton."

"Good. Let's start with the obvious one. Do you work for Poseidon's Blood?"

Heath's eyes widened slightly. Clint noticed Heath try to cover his right wrist. Clint then realized that he was trying to cover a small tattoo of a trident with dripping from it. "And if I do?"

"If you do, then this next part will be a lot easier. If not, or act like you don't, then let me be honest with you. The three agents currently watching this won't come to save you."

Heath gulped. Clint knew the threat would work. If Natasha or May were doing the interrogation, Heath would already be bloody. Noticing that Heath was becoming fidgety, Clint knew he had him right where he wanted Heath.

"Who is it you work for?"

"I don't know."

"You don't know who you take orders from?"

"No. Well yes. My boss gets a call from the man at the top and my boss in turn gives me orders."

"Who's the person at the top?"

"No one knows. Whoever gives the orders knows how to stay in the shadows."

"You were given orders to kill me?"

"Yes."

Clint smiled at him. "Do you know how stupid it is to go after me?"

Heath grinned back. "I do know, Agent Barton. I was given your file before 206 and I went after you."

"206?"

"My partner."

Clint then remembered the night of the attack. When he asked who Heath was, he replied by saying 'Agent 246'. "You use numbers instead of names?"

"We use numbers because we don't have names."

"But you do have names. You are Andrew Heath."

Heath sat back in his chair. The bruise on his head starting to clear up. "Oh Agent Barton. I gave you more credit than you apparently deserve."

Clint quirked his brow. "What are you talking about?"

"I'm sure by now you know about the Rising Tide involvement?"

"I do."

"Good. A few of them were recruited by Poseidon's Blood."

"To do what?"

"Make us disappear. Our real names and pasts replaced with false ones, like Andrew Heath. Its in order to protect the secrecy of the organization."

"And to hack government organizations? Like SHIELD?"

"That's just a fun bonus. Those silly hackers don't even know what they're really doing for us."

"Where can I find the rest of you?"

"Find the rest of us? You won't be able to find the rest of us."

Clint leaned forward in his chair and placed his hands on the table. "I'm intrigued. Tell me why I won't be able to find the rest of the organization."

Heath leaned in towards Clint. He was maybe seven inches away from Clint's face. "Because we are all over the world. 206 and I are only a small part of a small faction of Poseidon's Blood."

Clint looked at the one way see through glass window then back at Heath. "Where is your faction located?"

"I don't know."

Clint clenched his fist. "I am losing my patience with you. You better think your next answer through before I make it so you never talk again." Heath nodded. "Why don't you know where your faction is located?"

"After SHIELD arrested us, they moved from where they were to a new location. It's protocol if an agent gets caught or killed."

"Okay, that's believable. Where were you located?"

Heath looked away from Clint. There was a moment of silence in the room. "There is an empty garage at the intersection of 13th and Jefferson."

Clint smiled and looked at the window. On the other side, Coulson had a small smile on his face. "Did you know why you were sent to kill me?"

"Not entirely. The lieutenant just said that you had to die because you were a threat to us and would've gotten in the way of our plan."

"I don't know. I am the need to know basis agent."

Clint stood and walked out of the room. One of the agents with Coulson walked in to watch over Heath. "Send a team to check the garage he was talking about", Clint said to Coulson.

"Already on it. What about the rest of what he said."

"It's new to me. I am finally able to update the files."

"What about Blane? Or 206 as Heath calls him. Do you want to talk to him?"

"No, he's probably going to give me the same information or nothing at all."

Clint and Coulson started walking to the elevator. "What are you going to tell Romanov and Belova?"

Clint sighed. He hated lying to them but he didn't want to give the two sisters false hope that they would find who accessed their personnel files. "I don't know. Heath admitted to Poseidon's Blood having Rising Tide help which explains the SHIELD hackings. Finding the ones who did it is the hard part."

"Fury has me looking in to the Rising Tide. Maybe Heath or Blane can identify them."

"I doubt it. They don't know anything about each other. I don't think anyone but the lead boss knows who the Rising Tide affiliates are."

"Good point." The two got to the elevators as two agents stepped off. Clint stepped on and turned to face Coulson. "What are you going to do now?"

"Update the Poseidon's Blood file with what Heath said and then maybe go to the shooting range with Yelena. She seems eager to blow some stuff up. Keep me updated on the garage."

"Copy that, Barton."

After a quick elevator ride, the elevator stopped on the floor with Clint's office. He walked passed a few agents and saw a freaked out Natasha Romanov.

"Nat, what are you doing?"

"Clint, I can't find Yelena." Natasha was about to walk right by Clint when he grabbed her arm.

"Calm down, Nat. Take a breath and tell me what happened."

Natasha looked at him and did as he said. She took a deep breath. "Yelena and I got into a fight."

"About what?"

"I wish I knew. One second she and I are talking about graduation and the next, she in angry and yelling at me. I walked out to give her space and figure out what happened and when I got back, she was gone."

"Okay. Where have you looked?"

"Training center and dining hall. I'm on my way to the shooting range now. She likes to go there to blow off steam."

Clint smiled. That sounds right. "Let me get something done then I'll help you look."

"Thank you, Clint."

Clint let go of Natasha's arm and she walked to the elevator. Clint walked to his office and quickly wrote down the important information Heath had said. He grabbed his radio and and was about to step out of his office when he heard a quiet shift of movement come from above him. He smiled to himself, knowing exactly where Yelena was.

Clint looked up and saw that the tiles were in the right place. He walked over to his desk, moved some items, and climbed up on the desk. Moving one of the ceiling tiles, Clint jumped up and climbed into the vents. He carefully walked through the nest, going straight to Yelena's small set up.

"You alright", Clint asked.

Yelena's head shot up at the sound of Clint's voice. "How did you know I was here", she asked quietly.

Clint walked over and sat down opposite her. "I heard you moving up here." After a second, Clint spoke again. "You know, Natasha is looking for you."

Yelena sighed. "I know. I don't want to talk to her right now."

"Do you want to talk to me?"

Yelena looked at him. "No."

Clint smiled. "Okay. Then I guess we can just sit here."

Yelena gave him a small smile. "You don't have to stay here with me, Clint. I'm fine."

"If that were true, you wouldn't be up here hiding from Natasha. Now tell me what's going on or come up with another conversation. I don't do awkward silences well."

"I'm not hiding from Natasha. I just wanted some time to think."

"I get that, Yelena. I do. If you want to think, we don't have to talk about anything." Clint lightly kicked her boot with his which made her smile. "Unless you can think of another topic of conversation."

"I cannot", Yelena said giggling as Clint kept kicking her boot.

Clint smiled at her. He knew that he should text Natasha but Yelena didn't want people to know she was here. He wanted to respect that. Clint got up and was about to leave when Yelena spoke.

"Can you stay?" Clint turned to look at her. "Please", Yelena asked with a sheepish smile. Clint walked back to where he was but Yelena patted the spot next to her. Clint smiled and sat down next to her. "Thank you."

Before either of them knew it, the two fell asleep. Yelena's head was resting on Clint's shoulder and her arms were wrapped tightly around his arm. Clint's head was ended resting on hers.

Clint woke up fifteen minutes later and was about to move when he felt a weight on his chest. Yelena had apparently shifted in those fifteen minutes while they slept. Her head was now on his chest and her arms were wrapped around his body.

Clint smiled at the sleeping woman. He was glad that she was finally resting. Or sleeping, technically. She looked like she hasn't slept for a few days. He thought back to the conversation they had earlier. Yelena telling him that she had a hard time sleeping and would train instead of trying to sleep.

Clint put his hand on her hip and put his other hand on her arm that was across his chest. He laid his head against one of the cold pipes behind him. Clint's thumb started to rub her arm as his mind wandered. One of the things he was trying to figure out was what he was going to tell Natasha.

Should he say that she was in the nest? Or say that he couldn't find her? He really didn't know what to say. Clint looked down at Yelena and smiled at her. His thumb was still rubbing her arm.

Clint heard his phone vibrate against the steel that they were sitting on. He picked it up and checked it to see a text from Natasha. He took a deep breath and knew he had to decide on what to tell her.

Romanov: Where are you? You said you would help me.

Barton: I'm in the vents. And so is Yelena.

Romanov: Is she okay? I'm on my way to you now.

Barton: She's fine, Nat. She just came up here because she needed some time to think. I don't think you should come up here.

It took a few minutes but Natasha finally replied to Clint.

Romanov: Okay. Thank you for finding her.

Clint placed his phone back down and rested his head against the pipe. He closed his eyes and tried to rest for a little while longer. His thumb still rubbing Yelena's arm.

A little while later, Yelena eye's slowly opened. It took a few seconds but her eyes adjusted from being asleep. She felt the warmth of something against her body. She lifted her head from Clint's chest and looked at him. Yelena smirked at him because he was lightly snoring. She was about to pull away but she felt a hand resting on her hip and another hand on her arm.

Yelena was a little surprised because she isn't uncomfortable being held the way she is. Not by Clint anyway. She rested her head on his chest again. She smiled and closed her eyes as his steady heartbeat lulled her back to sleep.

The sound of Clint's radio woke the pair an hour later. They both jumped at the noise and scooted away from one another. Clint grabbed his radio when his mind registered the urgent tone behind the voice on the radio.

"Barton, do you copy?"

"This is Barton. Go ahead, Coulson."

"We need to talk. Where are you?"

"I'm in my office."

"Copy that. On my way."

Clint put his radio down and leaned his head against the pipe again. He turned his head to look at Yelena. She wasn't making eye contact with him. In fact, it looked like she was doing everything she could to not look at him.

"I'm going to go to my office", Clint said. He got up and began walking to the opening he used to climb into the vents. "I won't tell anyone you're here."

"Thank you for staying with me", Yelena said quietly. She still avoided eye contact with Clint.

He stopped walking and turned his head. Clint was unsure if Yelena knew if he heard her. "You're welcome", he replied back quietly. He said it a little louder so he was sure she could hear it. Yelena smiled at him.

Clint walked back to the opening and climbed down. His feet hit the floor and his back was to the door. "Hey Barton", Coulson said. "Have fun in the nest?"

Clint smiled. "I did." Clint turned around to face Coulson. "What's going on?"

Coulson's expression became serious. He placed a small stack of folders on the desk. "The tac team infiltrated the garage we were told about."

Clint started to look through the files that contained dozens of pictures of the garage. "What did they find?"

"Scraps of metal. Cars taken apart. Weapons like pistols, rifles, missile launchers. Large piles of cash in 50's and 100's."

"Great", Clint said sarcastically. "So we infiltrated a garage belonging to any gang in D.C. How does that help?"

"Because that is just what's in the front. The further back they went, the more crazy organization it becomes."

Clint got to the first photo that stood out to him. "Like this", Clint asked as he showed Coulson a photo of a prototype helmet.

"Exactly like that. When I saw it, I immediately thought that it belonged to an old SHIELD project."

Clint fell back in his chair in disbelief while staring at the photo. "Does this belong to SHADOW?"

"I don't know. I showed these Fury and he said that you would be able to confirm if it was a prototype helmet to SHADOW."

Clint let out a long sigh. "I hate to admit it, but I think this is a helmet for Project SHADOW."

Coulson sat down on a chair across from Clint. "Does this mean that she's back? Because if she is..."

"Let's not jump to that, Coulson. SHIELD was hacked and GHOST was taken. Along with the Widows' files. There's a chance Poseidon's Blood took the information on SHADOW. They could have used the Rising Tide."

"Do you really believe that?"

Clint ran his hand through his hair. "I don't know what I believe. Do we know how they got the tech to build the helmet? The technology is advanced for the project."

"I have a theory that it's Stark tech."

"How would they have gotten that?"

Coulson threw his hands up. "You name it. There was the incident at Stark Industries in '08. Then the whole thing at the Expo a while ago."

"Do you think any metal from New Mexico could be involved? It is alien tech."

"I don't think so, Barton. We were on seen after Thor destroyed that damn terminator."

"It doesn't mean that they couldn't have gotten their hands on some of it."

"I watched as they tore that thing apart. Fury even let me use some of it as a part of Phase Two."

"Phase Two? Really? I thought that was just for the cube."

"It was, but I convinced him to let me build a weapon with that tech."

Clint chuckled softly. He looked at the photo of the helmet then picked it up. "This helmet looks months away from completion. At least we have that going for us."

"Sure, but it doesn't tell us when it could be ready. Especially if we can't find Blood before they finish."

Clint sighed and threw the photo on the desk. "You're right. The problem is that we won't find them if every time we catch their agents, they move locations. And none of them know each other's real names or knows enough about the organization to help us pinpoint a final location."

"We'll keep looking Barton. Don't worry. Forensics is on scene now. We'll hopefully get something from that."

"Yeah...Yeah. Thanks Coulson." Coulson nodded to him then grabbed for the stack of files. Before Coulson could do anything, Clint put his hand on the stack. "I'll keep these. See if I can find anything else related to SHADOW."

"Copy that. I will keep you updated on what forensics finds."

Clint nodded to him and watched Coulson leave.

Clint couldn't believe this is real. He was scared enough when he discovered that GHOST was taken, but Project SHADOW possibly in the hands of Poseidon's Blood is a lot worse. The Security Council shut down the Project because of how severe it was to the agents involved.

Clint grabbed the photo he threw on the desk. He examined the helmet a little more. He knew it was months away from being complete, but he couldn't bear the thought of it being a reality. The mere affect it would have on SHIELD is hard enough to think about, but the safety of the sisters was more important to him.

Chapter 8: Another Nightmare from Hell

Notes:

Sorry this is late everyone. Had a case of writer's block. Hope you all enjoy the new chapter.

Standing from his chair, Clint gathered the files Coulson brought in and placed them in the drawer locked with his finger print. Just in case Yelena came down, he didn't want her to see any of it. Once he locked the drawer, Clint walked out of his office and walked to one of the windows on the floor his office was on. He stared at the bustling city of D.C. He always appreciates this view. When he is here to see it. It makes him feel calm and would occasionally distract him for a few minutes. He was so entranced that he almost didn't notice May walk up next to him.

"Enjoying the view", May asked as she looked out at the city too.

"I am."

"Is something wrong? I know you only look at the city when you need a distracted."

"Yep, something is wrong. And I don't know what to do."

"Is it something I can help with?"

"I wish it was, Mel. I really do", Clint said as he wrapped his arm around May's shoulder.

May looked at the hand on her shoulder then back at him. "I don't know what bothers me more. The name or your arm around my shoulder."

Clint laughed. "We both know you're not bothered by either of them."

"Wanna bet", May asked with an all too serious tone.

Clint slowly removed his arm from around her shoulder and put it behind his back. Besides Fury, May might be the one person who Clint is truly afraid of when she's angry. Even when she isn't angry, she is still scary.

"Did you need a break from the cadets", Clint asked with a small chuckle.

"I did. I am not cut out to train cadets."

Clint laughed. "You're meant to be in the field, May. You know that."

"You know why I can't be in the field anymore."

"You joined me on a mission after the whole Bahrain thing though."

"Clint, that was a special circumstance. And it's good I was there, your nightmare kicked your ass."

Clint smiled. "Yes it did. I am still glad you were there because I don't know what I would've done otherwise."

May smiled back. "That's the one and only time I would do a mission after Bahrain. That was my agreement with Fury."

"I won't argue with that. Mostly because I know I would loose, but I won't change my mind. You belong in the field."

The two became silent after that. They just looked at the city, admiring the view. May walked away a little while later, and Clint didn't even notice that she had moved.

A big part of Clint hated that he couldn't tell May about Project SHADOW. He's told her so much over the years that he has been at SHIELD and trusted with a lot of private information about himself. He couldn't even tell the Widows about it. Coulson and Fury were the only ones, besides Clint, that know about SHADOW. The World Security Council also know, but they didn't count in this situation. He was glad that they shut down the project, but at the same time, he resents their decision for allowing to happen at all.

So much of Clint's past is starting to be revealed to the world. Or to SHIELD anyway. And he does not look forward to seeing the possible repercussions of it.

Clint took a few steps back from the window and turned around. He didn't know where he was going so he decided to just walk straight.

As if his subconscious knew he wanted to hit something, Clint ended up going to the gym. He took his jacket off and his shirt soon followed. All that was covering his chest was a black tank top. He set the the two items of clothing down on the floor next to him and put on punching gloves.

He positioned himself in front of the punching bag and started hitting it. His anger kept adding power to his punches. That proved helpful in the past. Had the bag been a person, they would be dead. Or very severely injured. The other agents in the workout room were all very aware of the fact that Agent Barton was angry. Even the two agents who were about to use the bag before Clint got there, stepped back. They weren't stupid enough to tell him they were about to use it.

Clint kept punching it with so much ferocity that it seemed like the bag would come off the chain completely. A part of Clint wanted to hit the bag off its chain, but he knew not to because a new one would come out of his paycheck.

As time passed, Clint never pulled his punches on the bag. Agents and cadets filed in and out of the room and Clint never stopped. In fact, he never stopped hitting it at the pace he had been since he started.

Clint, covered in sweat, finally stopped punching and kicking the bag. He took a few steps back and looked around. He was the only one in the gym. He knew that when he was angry and so focused on something, time disappeared. He smiled to himself remembering when he was in the gym until two in the morning one time after a mission had gone sideways.

Clint grabbed his phone from his jacket pocket and checked the time. 10:37. Clint put the phone down and took off his gloves. Picking up all his things, he walked back to his office. Barely an agent was still in the building. Maybe two or three on his floor. Probably close to completing their mission reports, he thought.

He got back to his office and closed the door behind him. He didn't know why but it has been something of a habit for the past couple of years.

Clint set his jacket, shirt, and gloves down on the couch and sat at his desk. He didn't even want to move anything. All he wanted to do was stay right where he was because every bone was sore. He was definitely feeling it now.

His eyes wandered to the items on his desk. The computer, obviously, a SHIELD issue tablet that almost always stayed off, a notebook because Clint is old school, and a note. Clint's eyes stayed on the note for a second before grabbing it.

'You seem distracted right now, beating the shit out of that bag. We can do the shooting range another time.'

Clint smiled. "I promise we will", Clint said quietly.

He set the note down and saw a file on his desk. He didn't freak out about this one because it had a SHIELD verification number and bar code on the bottom. It also read 'Security Level 7 or Above Required'. He opened it to reveal Yelena's information. It was Yelena's personnel file. Clint assumed Hill brought it in for the evaluation. His suspicions were confirmed when he saw a note from Hill, 'Her evaluation with you is tomorrow at 8. Be there'. Agents doing evaluations on cadets have to fill in information in the cadet's file. Agents doing the evaluations also get to give a recommendation on where that cadet could be assigned.

Clint started to flip through Yelena's file. He wasn't at all surprised to see some much black in it. Most of what she had done for the Red Room was redacted. It was very similar to Natasha's file. After going through the file, he got to the last page that the section he would fill out during the evaluation was.

He put the file down and rubbed his eyes. He has to be ready to do Yelena's evaluation tomorrow and that means having a decent amount of sleep. In thinking that, Clint closed the file and stood up. He grabbed his jacket and shirt and walked to the garage. Being sure, of coarse to lock his office.

One of the many things he hated about D.C at night is that it never shuts down. Constant traffic, 24 hours a day, and nothing ever closed.

Clint got to his apartment building, walked up the stairs, and walked into the apartment. He was glad it was late because then he didn't have to talk to any of his neighbors. He threw his stuff on his couch and went straight to his bedroom.

Stripping out of his clothes, he put on a cozy shirt and sweat pants and crawled into bed. 11:43 is what his clock read. It's not a bad time to go to bed. To him anyway. Clint rested his head against the pillow and closed his eyes. This is the most comfortable he's been in months. He quickly fell asleep because of the softness of the bed against his sore muscles.

The desert. He was back in the desert. Why was he back here? Looking down, he was again laying over the body of his C.O. Clint looked up from the body and noticed it was quiet. Wait, it was quiet. All of the shooting had stopped. Oh shit. He knows how this is going to end. And there is nothing he can do about it.

Clint kept his head up and looked around at the empty desert that was being illuminated only by the fire of the humvees. He couldn't see any flashes in the distance so he knows no one is firing at him. He crawled along the ground to stay out of sight and grabbed for the binoculars that was a few feet away from him.

Looking through the binoculars, Clint couldn't see anyone on the hill that he and his C.O were taking fire from. What he did see however, was a small light that was fading in and out in the distance. It had to be the camp they were looking for. He knew he had to investigate what it was that was doing that.

Clint grabbed his gun and took the magazine out of it. He had maybe three bullets left. He threw the gun down on the ground and started to go to the hill. He made sure to stay low to the ground just in case there were still rebels on the hill.

He walked up the hill, quietly. Clint was being sure to walk on weeds and shrubbery as little as possible to avoid detection. Clint couldn't hear or see anything. He dropped down just before the top of the hill. He crawled to the top and peaked over.

Clint grabbed the binoculars that was attached to his vest. Resting his elbows against the rough dirt, he looked through them. He was right, it was a camp. Actually, it was a village. A village completely overrun by terrorists. And these same terrorists were shooting at him thirty minutes earlier.

Damn it! Wake up! WAKE UP! Clint can't watch this happen again. WAKE UP!

Clint placed the binoculars down and turned around. He laid against the dirt and faced the night sky. His blood was far past its boiling point. All he wanted now was to avenge his mentor. He removed his knife from its sheath and flipped it around in his hand. If he's going to die, he is going to go down his way.

Clint turned back around and peaked over the top of the hill. No one was looking at the hill. There weren't even any snipers. He started his descent to the village.

Getting to cover behind a few bushes, Clint observed the perimeter guards. They were walking in three minute shifts. Clint waited for the next shift to walk through to where he was hiding. He's going to take out as many of these guys as he could.

Clint spotted the two guards he was on. The two walked up and stood exactly where Clint knew they would. He stepped out of the brush and snuck up behind the two. He kicked the leg of the one standing on the right and swung the knife into the back of the neck of the guard on the left. The guard on the right was about to fire his weapon to alert the others but Clint moved faster. He grabbed the gun, elbowed the guy in the side of the head, and kicked his other leg out from under him. He ended it by stabbing him in the chest with the knife.

Clint then ran to one of the houses. He took cover behind it and moved through the small separation between the two houses. He looked at what was happening on the inside of the small village. He saw guards walking around, which wasn't unusual. What was though, was the guys that were gathering in one of the houses a few meters away from him. That's where he wanted to be for answers.

He crouched down and watched the interior guards walk around. Clint knew he was running low on time concerning the the three minutes. He finally had a clear route to the house. He took off running and snuck quietly into the house.

He stayed flat against the wall. Lucky for him, they didn't see him come in. Maneuvering fast enough, Clint threw his knife at the head guy and kicked the guy directly in front of him. The knife went right into the head guy's skull. The guy Clint kicked hit the table they were all looking at and got knocked out.

Before the other guys could react, Clint started taking them out. He was fast enough to get them before they could grab their guns. He kicked, punched, and slammed them all. The one thing they all shared was that they were dropping dead. Clint isn't an ordinary soldier that's unhinged.

Clint kicked one guy into a wall and thrust his forward to hit him again. The guy's body slowly slid to the floor as blood began dribbling from his mouth. Clint stood over the body and heard the faint sound of a gun being cocked behind him. The guy he knocked out earlier was back up.

Knowing this had to happen fast, Clint back flipped and kicked the guy in the head. That took him down. Hard. What Clint wasn't expecting was the guy still pulling the trigger when he fell.

Clint jumped over the table and grabbed his knife out of the dead man's chest. Now he didn't have to be quiet, which helps him a lot. His grip tightened on the blood stained knife. He turned and saw a window he could use to get out. If he's going to die, it's going to be on his terms. He climbed out the window right before someone ran into the house.

Clint was flat against the wall next to the window. He was mostly sure no one saw him. Then the yelling started. He wasn't fluent in the language but he knew enough. The dead perimeter guards were found and someone was yelling to check the whole camp.

WAKE UP!!! His consciousness kept telling him to wake up but it didn't work.

He started running along the edge of the village. Once he got far enough, Clint ran through the space between two houses and took out the guard he saw standing there. That caught the attention of the whole camp. Clint watched as they all ran toward him. That's what he wanted.

Clint started taking them out one by one. None of them stood a chance against him. He was using a few as shields and killing the rest himself. When he got down to the last two guys, he managed to corner them. They both ran out of ammo. One of them ran at Clint with his gun and Clint dodged the hit and cut the guy's throat.

The guy fell to his knees holding his throat. Then fell over dead. Clint then looked to the last guy who was shaking in fear. Clint inched closer and closer to the guy. His blood was still boiling by that point. The guy slowly raised his hands in surrender but Clint didn't care. His anger was still in control. He walked toward the guy and punched him. He continued to punch on him until Clint knew he wasn't breathing anymore.

Clint slowly walked through the village. His hands were dripping blood. His vest, boots, pants, and face were also covered in blood. He walked to the center of the village and looked at all the bodies. A very small militia reduced to nothing. His breathing became more and more erratic until he let out a scream and fell to his knees.

Clint shot up in bed, breathing frantically. He quickly threw the sheets off of him and stumbled to his closet. His uneven breathing was making it hard for him to walk. Clint knew exactly what was happening to him; he was having a panic attack.

Clint shoved the clothes out of the way and grabbed a box that was stashed behind a few other small boxes. He opened it and grabbed out a piece of fabric. He walked out of his closet and leaned against a wall. He slowly slid down it and started rubbing the fabric. His breathing started to steady.

He didn't know how long he was sitting there but he was brought out of his mind when his alarm clock went off. Clint got up from the wall and turned the alarm off. He set the piece of fabric down on the bed and leaned against the wall.

"What the hell", Clint muttered.

A Few Hours Later...

Clint walked through the halls of the Triskelion, ignoring the agents that walked past him. He even ignored May when they walked past each other. He didn't think that she noticed. Or maybe she didn't care. Clint was still very distracted from his nightmare and panic attack. He knows he has to get his head in the game. At least for thirty minutes to do Yelena's evaluation.

Clint got to his office and slumped down in his chair. He placed Yelena's personnel file on his desk and got ready for the evaluation. He arrived to his office just in time too because he heard a knock on the door and in came Yelena and Hill.

"Thanks Hill", Clint said as Yelena sat down across from Clint. Hill nodded to the two and left; closing the door behind her. "I take it that Hill informed you on how this works?"

"Yes", Yelena replied.

"Good. As I am also sure you know, I will be recording this evaluation. After that, the recording will be sent to the people who are actually qualified to do this job, but are too lazy to get off their asses to come here themselves."

Yelena smiled. "I am aware."

"Let's begin then", Clint said while pushing a button on his tablet.

For the next fifteen to twenty minutes, Clint lost track of time, he asked Yelena a series of questions. He asked her how she would respond to certain situations or how she would treat foreign agents. Some of her answers did surprise him, if he were being honest. Clint read down the list of questions and got to the last one. The one that he knows the answer to, but doesn't want to ask.

"Last question, Cadet Belova." Yelena nodded. Clint hesitated slightly before asking. "Do you have nightmares about previous operations?"

It was Yelena's turn to start hesitating. She began to shift in her seat and Clint noticed. He hit a button on the tablet to stop the recording. "What are you doing", she asked.

"Are you okay", he asked softly.

"I don't know how to respond to the question."

Clint stared at her for a second. "You respond honestly."

"But what if it..."

"It won't change anything, Yelena. You can go around to any agent in this building and ask if they have nightmares. It's a guarantee that over 90% of them will say yes."

"But those nightmares started after they became agents", Yelena said louder than expected. "It doesn't make me feel any better", she said softly.

Clint sighed. He understood her apprehension, but knew that lying wouldn't help anything. "Did I ever tell you how SHIELD heard of me?"

Yelena looked at him and shook her head. "No."

"Well, I joined the Marines at 18, as you know. I was a part of a team comprised of the best snipers the Marines had. They called us the Birds of Prey. Pretty lame huh?" Yelena smiled. "They called us that because we were all incredible sharpshooters. We were all given individual bird names to use on operations."

Yelena laughed. "Is that where Hawkeye came from?"

Clint smiled. "Yes it was. I also got the name because of my incredible hearing. Anyway, we were called to be overwatch for when needed. One night we get a call that an infiltration team is pinned down from a group of rebels and need backup. We're on our way to the location and that's when...", Clint squeezed his fist to hold back his tears. "That's when it all went to hell."

"Four members of the team are in the first humvee and my C.O and I are in the second humvee. Suddenly, the first humvee blew up. My C.O swerved to miss it and we got out of it just before ours blew. We began to return fire from where the missile that destroyed the humvees came from. As it turns out, the entire call was fake."

"We were there for maybe an hour. I can't remember. We were both low on ammo, it was late, covered in sweat, and we watched our team get killed; so not a good night. I was looking through the scope of my rifle killing who I could when it got covered in blood. I looked up and then froze." Yelena was shocked at what he was saying. "I'm looking at the body of my mentor with a bullet in his head."

"I crawled over to him with some hope. but it proved useless because I knew he was dead. After I wrapped my head around it, all I wanted was revenge. It was like a thirst I couldn't quench. Not until I knew they were all dead. And that's exactly what I did. I went into their camp with nothing but a knife and killed them all."

Yelena fought back the tears that were close to falling. She did not think the story would affect her the way it did. If she was being honest, she didn't know what the story would do. "Is that how you became an interest to SHIELD?"

"Yeah", Clint replied while looking away. He closed his eyes as one tear drop rolled down his cheek. "I had a nightmare about it early this morning. In fact, it caused me to wake up with a panic attack."

It took a few minutes but Yelena finally fully understood the story he told her. "Who else knows about that night?"

"Fury because the man knows everything and May because I told her about it on a mission. No one else knows. Not even Natasha."

"You haven't told Natasha?"

"Nope. It's not a memory I like to revisit."

"Then why did you tell me?"

"Because I wanted you to know, Yelena. The head of SHIELD knows that I have constant nightmares and am mentally unstable occasionally and yet he still relies on me. So be honest with the question. You'll be fine."

Yelena smiled softly at him and nodded. Clint smiled back and hit a button on his tablet. "Yes", she said. "I do have nightmares."

Clint smiled at her and started writing other things down. He dismissed Yelena and finished working on the evaluation paper. He stopped when he got to the section about assignments. This is where he has to be unbiased. Where does Yelena belong as a field agent?

"Just be honest", Clint said quietly.

Clint started to write down under the assignment.

'Occupation: Field Operation Agent Location: The Triskelion'

Notes:

Not sure if there will be a new chapter next week but I will try.

Chapter 9: A Wave of Descrution and Peace

Summary:

Hey everyone!! I really tried to get a chapter out last week but it didn't work, so I apologize. To make up for it, here is my longest chapter yet. Please enjoy.

Now Clint has to deal with graduation day for cadets. He was less than thrilled about it. Graduation is never fun. All of SHIELD making a big deal over nothing. It just didn't make any sense to him. Cadets become agents, so what? If they are in a SHIELD academy, then it's a good chance they would become graduate and become agents.

Coulson might be the only person he knows who actually gets excited about graduation. A new batch of agents that he gets to boss around.

It had been a month since Clint had done Yelena's evaluation and he hasn't heard a thing from anyone. The guys who listen to the evaluation recordings also haven't contacted him. He took that as a good sign. He wanted to know how everything was going in that department. He felt he deserved to know; considering where he stands with Yelena and Natasha.

Clint's been trying to distract himself from the 'fun' of graduation by sinking himself into the Poseidon's Blood thing. They haven't made a noise since SHIELD agents took down the garage that one of the factions was operating out of. Clint watched the recording of the interrogation over and over; trying to see if he could get any information.

"Did you know why you were sent to kill me?"

"Not entirely. The lieutenant just said that you had to die because you would've gotten in the way."

That was it. Clint backed the video up. "You would've gotten in the way." He backed it up again. "You would've gotten in the way." He paused it after that.

Why is he the one they want dead? All of SHIELD is a threat to Poseidon's Blood and all they care about is killing him. It doesn't make any sense. Whoever their leader is, knows that Clint is a major threat and has to do anything to eliminate him.

"Barton", Coulson said as he walked into Clint's office. "I have news."

"What is it, Coulson?"

"Satellites picked up something off the coast of New York."

Clint looked up. "What is it?"

"We don't know for sure until we get there but it has the outline of a plane."

Clint thought for a second. "Are you saying you found him?"

Coulson smiled. "Not sure. Won't know till I'm there but there is a good chance it is."

Clint smiled. "Congrats Coulson. I know you've been searching for him for a while now."

"Thanks. I just wish I knew how long this is going to take."

Clint quirked his brow. "What do you mean?"

"The plane is under tons of ice. It's going to take a while to dig him out. And I want to be there when we do."

"So you can say that you dug him out", Clint asked teasingly.

"Exactly", Coulson said walking out.

Clint laughed and shook his head. He was impressed that after a year or so of searching, Coulson may have finally found the great captain from World War II. Maybe he'll get the man to sign his vintage trading cards. If the soon to be unfrozen man doesn't freak out first.

The greatest soldier in history being found is probably the most interesting thing to happen at SHIELD for the next month. It became the main topic of conversation between agents. There were even bets going around as to if he would join SHIELD or not.

Then the big moment happened. The super soldier woke from his 70 year slumber. And Clint was then proven right at that moment. The man did not respond well when he woke up. He knew SHIELD shouldn't have done that to him. Now SHIELD is responsible for helping the soldier reintegrate to the modern world.

Clint would've been a part of it, had it not been for a call from the FBI. Who got a call from Metro P.D saying an FBI transport was attacked. He was skeptical at first until he was tole the names of the two prisoners being transported. Andrew Heath and Charles Blane.

In the midst of all the frozen man excitement, Clint forgot that the two men were being transported.

Arriving on the scene, Clint got out of the SHIELD issue SUV. He surveyed the scene and it was quite the picture. A very horrific one at that. FBI agents dead all over the place, civilians injured and being checked out by medics, and no clue as to who did it.

Clint spotted the lead investigator and walked over to him. "Hey, I'm Agent Barton with SHIELD."

"Special Agent Rahul Nadeem. I'm in charge of the scene."

"Can you tell me what happened", Clint asked as the two men walked to the transport.

"We don't know a whole lot. Our SWAT team was tasked with transporting these two to a secret supermax. They were attacked mid transport as you can see and our guys weren't quick enough to call for back up." Clint jumped into the back of the transport with the two dead bodies. "Whoever did this has to have known the route we take and time we would go, right?"

Clint examined the bodies. "I don't know. An armored truck accompanied by three government SUVs tends to stand out."

"Fair enough", Nadeem whispered. Clint obviously heard but wasn't going to say anything.

Clint observed the bodies closer and noticed something peculiar. "Were any shell casings recovered from guns not fired by the FBI?"

"No. These guys knew to police their brass. And the holes in the bodies are unlike any I've ever seen."

"That's because these aren't normal wounds. Come here." Agent Nadeem jumped into the transport. "Do you see these burn marks around the wound?"

"Yeah", Nadeem said skeptically.

"These prisoner uniforms are a mix of wool and modacrylic fibers."

"So?"

"Bullets don't burn fabric like this."

"Are you seriously telling me someone burned holes into these men? I get you're SHIELD but this is insane."

Clint chuckled. "This doesn't even break the top ten with what I've seen." He got up, moved past Nadeem and hopped out of the transport. Nadeem followed. Clint walked over to one of the bodies and threw the blue tarp off the body.

Nadeem was shocked. "He has it too."

"They all do", Clint muttered.

Nadeem got up from the body and ran to another one. He threw the tarp off and saw the same wounds with the burn marks around each wound. "What the hell could've done this?"

"You don't want to know", Clint said quietly. He got up and walked over to Nadeem. "SHIELD will be taking over the investigation."

Nadeem looked at him. "I'm sorry Agent Barton but I can't allow that."

Clint smiled. "Allow that? You and I are going to get one thing straight right now. Those two dead prisoners were SHIELD prisoners and they were killed by an organization that I've been hunting for a while. Stand in my way and I'll make you regret it."

Clint and Nadeem stared at each other. "Fine", Nadeem said plainly. "I don't want any problems with SHIELD."

"Good choice", Clint said. He walked back to his SUV. "SHIELD will be here soon to take over. Don't withhold any information." Nadeem nodded to him. "That's my job", Clint said when he was inside the SUV.

Clint pulled out his phone to call Fury to say he had secured the scene but couldn't get a call through. In fact, he didn't have any service. Clint got back out of the SUV, but nothing changed.

"Nadeem, are you or your guys getting any service", Clint asked.

Nadeem turned to look at Clint. He pulled out his phone to notice he had no service. "No."

"Are you", Clint asked an agent who was close to him. The agent shook his head. "What about over your radios?" Nadeem shook his head after he tried his radio. "Dammit."

Clint started looking around. Some of this was starting to make sense. Those FBI agents weren't able to call for back up because something was jamming their signal. The burns on everyone's uniforms from guns more advanced than any gun in the world. Even SHIELD wasn't there yet. There's only one organization that could do this and wanted those two dead.

The buildings that were towering over him all had one thing in common, satellite dishes. Poseidon's Blood could have used any of them to jam the FBI radio signals. Now he has to check each dish individually. And that's exactly what he did.

Fifths time the charm, Clint thought, when he got to the roof. He walked to the dish and was immediately relieved to see an abnormality with it. There was a small box with a blinking red light attached to the dish.

"Professional organization my ass", Clint said as he grabbed the box.

He threw the box down and destroyed it with his boot. He grabbed out his phone to finally see he had service. Clint dialed Fury's number and was about to call when he noticed something else out of the ordinary. It was on the east side of the roof, overlooking the crime scene.

Clint walked over to it and knelt down. It was messy but he knew what a sniper perch looked like from anywhere. It had a perfect view of the scene and had just enough cover to not be noticed when the SUVs drove toward it. He stood back up and moved his foot forward and heard a click. Then an explosion.

He saw the FBI agents below scramble to their vehicles and go to the site of the explosion. Clint looked back down at the foot on the pressure plate. It could be one of two things. The plate could have activated the explosion when he stood on it or the blast was completely unrelated and Clint was standing on another big boom.

He took out his knife from his pocket and took a deep breath. Slow and steady gets you home alive. Clint slowly bent over and brushed the dirt out of the way. Out of all the bombs he has defused, a pressure plate bomb was the worst. He didn't have to move a lot of the dirt before he saw a radio transmitter. A transmitter that wouldn't work without the signal jammer being destroyed. Clint had stepped right into their trap.

Fifty-fifty shot. Clint slowly removed his foot from the plate and breathed a sigh of relief when it didn't blow up. He grabbed his phone, again, and dialed Fury's number. He informed the director that SHIELD will control the scene and he told Fury about the explosion.

SHIELD quickly arrived on both scenes. They took control of both scenes which pissed off the FBI to no end. They did share everything they knew though.

Clint met up with Fury at the bottom of the building next to the FBI ambush. SHIELD agents were canvasing the scene and talking with FBI agents.

"Are you positive this was a Poseidon's Blood attack", Fury asked.

"Positive", Clint replied.

"The victims to the attack aren't helpful Barton. How do you know?"

Clint looked around and walked to a private spot of the scene. Fury was close behind. "The way the prisoners and agents were killed. Each entry wound was burned and there were no shell casings."

Fury sighed. "SHADOW?" Clint nodded. "Son of a bitch. How do they already have that tech?"

"Coulson's theory makes the most sense", Clint said. "All the problems we've had with Stark. His tech is perfect to use to get SHADOW operating."

"You might be right. I wish Coulson wasn't being a fanboy with Rogers right now so we could inform him."

"Why should we ruin his fun with Rogers?"

Fury didn't reply. He instead walked back to the scene. "I want you to head back to the Triskelion. Update our file on Blood and SHADOW."

"Yes sir. Anything else you want me to do?"

"Yeah. Don't tell anyone anything about the explosion. I'll have agents cover it up."

"Yes sir."

"Oh, and Barton."

"Sir", Clint said turning to look at Fury.

"That Agent Nadeem, what do you know about him?"

"Not a lot."

"What does he know?"

"All he knows is the burns on the wounds. Nothing else."

Fury didn't reply. He just turned around and started ordering agents around. Clint took that as a sign to leave. He climbed into the SUV and drove back to the Triskelion. His mind going to the explosion. After all that Blood has done to stay in the shadows, why would they risk it all like that? None of it made sense.

The twenty minute drive to the Triskelion went by quickly. His mind spent the whole drive trying to figure out the purpose for the explosion. It's one of the things he hates about his mind. Once something happens, he tries to figure it out instantly. Its a curse sometimes but other times it makes him the smartest person in a room. May has pointed that out multiple times.

Clint walked through the garage then to his office. All the while never breaking his concentration on trying to figure out the explosion. Speaking of the explosion, it could be seen from the base. Clint watched the smoke rise from it while he was going up the elevator.

Stepping onto the floor with his office, Clint saw so many cadets talking and walking around the floor. It's all part of the days that lead to graduation. Cadets get shown some restricted floors of SHIELDs most advanced base. There were also cadets from the operation academies and science academies.

Clint finally got past the crowd of cadets, having to make more conversations than he ever has before, and got to his office. He sat down and at his desk, put his face in his hands, and shook his head. It's because of shit like this that makes his regret joining SHIELD in the first place.

Once he took a breath and calmed down, he took the file out of his desk. All these things with Poseidon's Blood and SHADOW were beginning to take a toll on him. A soft knock on the door got him out of his mind.

"Come in", Clint said. He watched as Yelena walked in and sat down. "How can I help you soon to be Agent Belova?"

Yelena smiled. "Did you want to go to the shooting range?" Clint looked down at the file. "If you have to work, it's okay."

"No no. Let's go. I need something else to do for a while."

Clint stood from his chair and walked over to the filing cabinet. He opened it and grabbed out a box of new arrowheads and grabbed the non-trick arrows that were leaning against the cabinet. Yelena stood and walked out of the room with Clint close behind her. His bow slung over his shoulder.

The two went to the shooting range in the basement of the Triskelion. They were the only two down there which was good for them because it meant they could blow stuff up without making anyone mad.

Clint sat down on a chair to start placing the trick arrowheads on the arrows. Yelena started firing regular arrows at the targets just for practice. Clint was impressed with how good she was getting but knew she still needed practice. Yelena still struggled with pulling back on the bow string.

After firing a few more regular arrows, Clint rose from the chair and Yelena handed the bow back to him. He didn't want her to fire the first trick arrow just in case something went wrong. She stood a few feet behind him as he took his stance. He fired it at the target. Yelena watched in amazement as the target froze in ice then burst into flames a second later. The fire burned until it consumed all the ice.

"Why do you make random arrows like that one", Yelena asked as she took the bow Clint was offering. She grabbed one of the arrows and took her stance.

"I don't know why. I've thought about it in the past. I guess I do it just to see if I can." Yelena fired the arrow and it did exactly what it should have; it froze the target then burned it. "And it's cool to watch the targets get destroyed in weird ways."

Yelena smiled at him and grabbed another arrow. "What is the range of the ice?"

"Twenty, twenty five feet. I have to make sure my arrows can do just enough damage in the field. Never know the situations that will require certain arrows."

"What situation would you get into that needs this?"

"I don't know. I think I made that one because I was bored. The electric paralyzation arrow is the one that does have a purpose."

Yelena was about to fire until he said that. She turned to look at him. "You have a paralyzation arrow?"

Clint laughed at her. "Yeah. The effects only last twenty to thirty minutes but it does cause damage."

"How do they work?"

"The electrical current will disrupt nerve signals to the muscles. The current will stay activated for thirty seconds then the bodies fall."

"Does it shut down all the body's systems?"

"I can program them too, but for now, they just disrupt the signals that allow them to move."

"That's so cool", Yelena whispered to herself. She pulled back on the string and let go. The arrow froze the target then burned it.

Clint grabbed a new arrow with a different head and took the bow. "I'm working on a sound wave arrow that disintegrates the object it's connected to."

"Can I help you build it? And then test it?" Yelena asked the latter with a little more enthusiasm.

Clint smiled with amusement. "Sure."

After a few more arrows and explosions, the two sat down so Clint could prepare a few more trick arrows. "I'm glad graduation is tomorrow."

Clint chuckled. "Oh yeah? Are you done with being treated like a cadet even though you can beat every agent in the building?"

"Yeah", Yelena said with a smile. "And I want to leave the building without an escort."

"I remember those days. Soon you'll be able to on your own."

"You know I can take care of myself, right?"

"I know, but there are protocols we just can't break. Even though I enjoyed breaking them. The trick is to know which ones to break and when to break them."

Yelena laughed. "You should teach me which ones to break."

Clint smiled. "Just let me know when." The two fired five more dangerous arrows each before Clint's phone buzzed. "Oh shit, it's Fury. I should get back to my office."

"Okay", Yelena said, grabbing the arrows.

"He's gonna have me working the rest of the day so I'll see you tomorrow at graduation."

"May said that you don't go to graduation", Yelena said confused.

Clint smiled at her. "Well, I have a reason to be there this time." Clint turned around, all his gear in hand, and practically ran to the elevator.

Yelena smiled at him. She was amused with him running to the elevator without dropping anything but what he said meant more to her. Her heart skipped a beat at those words. Why did he have to say that she was the reason he would be at graduation?

She checked her watch and realized she was going to be late. She promised Bobbi and Hunter she would meet them in the training center to go over some techniques.

The elevator finally got to the right floor and Clint ran to his office. He was relieved to NOT see Fury standing in his office. He set his stuff down and got back down to work. He opened the file and began jotting down what had happened with FBI and the explosion.

Graduation Day...

The 'big' day was finally here. Some agents had finally finished setting up the room in the Triskelion that would be used. The event was normally held at a facility owned by SHIELD that was in D.C but the explosion the previous day changed things. Fury wasn't happy about that. Clint couldn't figure out if it was Fury's resting face or he just genuinely didn't want graduation to be held at the Triskelion. It amused Clint either way though.

Instructors from all academies, agents, analysts, and other SHIELD personnel were all in the large conference room being used for graduation. Clint laughed when he walked in and saw May leaning against the wall, ready to shoot herself. This was her fifteenth graduation ceremony. It gets boring after the first one.

Clint sat in the very back row, just in case he was called out. He saw Natasha was sitting in the row right behind the last row of cadets. He understood that she wanted to be as close to Yelena as she could today. He hasn't seen Natasha so happy and scared at the same time. Yelena being in the field did scare him too.

"Hey Barton", Coulson said as he took the seat next to Clint.

"Hey Coulson. What are you doing back here? Shouldn't you be up there with Hill?"

"Shouldn't you be with Natasha", Coulson asked with a smile.

"Fair enough. I decided to sit back here if I'm called to action."

"Smart plan." There was a few seconds of silence. "I heard about the whole FBI thing. Was it really Poseidon's Blood?"

Clint waited for an agent to pass by before answering. "That's what it is pointing to, but what doesn't make sense is the building that was blown up. They've never been that reckless before." Just then, Fury walked by the two agents.

"That we know of", Coulson said as he stood. He followed Fury up on stage and took a seat next to Hill.

Clint laughed and shook his head. He wasn't surprised by what Coulson did but did make a good point. Who knows how many attacks Poseidon's Blood has been responsible for that SHIELD never knew about. Great, now something else for him to do research on. Thank you very much Phil Coulson.

And graduation had finally begun. Fury began speaking and gave the same b.s that he was honored to be speaking about the cadets. It took all of Clint's will power to not laugh. Clint was never at his own graduation, so this was new to him. One hour before, Fury had sent him on his first field assignment.

Now Fury began to call names. The cadet called up would walk up there, shake the director's hand, and would be given an envelope that had all the information that new agent had to know. Including location of operation and operation. Going in order of last names, Yelena was ninth to be called up. She walked up there, shook Fury's hand, and was given an envelope. She looked out to the crowd and made eye contact with Clint. He smiled and winked at her and she smiled back at him.

A few more cadets were called up including Hunter before Clint's phone buzzed. He took it out of his pocket and quietly left the room after checking the message.

Clint drove through the streets of D.C very quickly. The text said that it was urgent and he had to get to the bomb site. All he cared about was that he got to see Yelena graduate before the text happened.

He got to the bomb site and parked the SUV just outside the 'do not cross' tape. He got out and ducked under the tape. The scene looked so familiar. Standing on a bomb site sent him back to Baghdad.

"Agent Barton", a man in a suit said.

Clint looked up to see the man. "Agent Foster", Clint replied. "Good to see you."

"It's good to see you too. I wish it was under better circumstances."

"Were you the one to call me?"

"Yes sir. Fury said to call you if we found anything."

Clint sighed. Of course he did. "Let's start with the obvious one, casualties."

"53 dead. 117 injured."

"Damn", Clint muttered. "Do you know what the bomb was made of?"

"Yes sir. A chemical compound called triacetone triperoxide."

Clint's eyes widened. "The Mother of Satan? Are you sure?"

"You've heard of it?"

"Unfortunately I have. I've seen the devastation of TATP when I was an EOD tech for the Marine Corps."

Clint couldn't believe what he was hearing. Just when he thought Poseidon's Blood couldn't get more mysterious, they come out with TATP. He ran his hand through his hair and walked away from Agent Foster. There goes any chance of his day being somewhat enjoyable.

"We haven't been able to find a motive", Agent Foster said.

"The casualties are the motive", Clint said.

"What do you mean?"

Clint didn't reply to Foster. He instead kept walking around the debris on the road. "One of the busiest office buildings in the city. So many targets, why this one?"

"What did you say, Sir?"

"Nothing", Clint said. He realized what he said, he said out loud. "Anything else I have to know?"

"Not that isn't already known or on the news."

Clint nodded to the agent and went back to the SUV. Once he got inside, he punched the steering wheel. Why was he so stupid? He should have known that there was a pressure plate there; he was trained to spot things like that. And now 53 people are dead and that number may climb.

He got back to the Triskelion angry and upset. The first place he went to was Fury's office. Once he got there, he was glad to see both Coulson and Fury standing there talking. Clint walked in and joined the group; not giving a second thought to their conversation.

"Thanks for waiting, Barton", Coulson said sarcastically.

"You're very welcome, Coulson."

"Did you find anything at the explosion site", Fury asked.

"The chemicals that made up the explosive."

"What was it", Coulson asked.

Clint sighed. "TATP." Fury and Coulson looked at him confused. Right, Clint forgot he's occasionally the smartest in the room. "Triacetone triperoxide. Also known as the Mother of Satan."

"Mother of Satan", Coulson asked surprised. "Is there a reason for that?"

"Because if these chemicals aren't handled properly, they can be very unstable." The room became silent. "But it's a good thing."

"Excuse me", Fury almost yelled. "How is that a good thing?"

"That chemical compound is so rare to find at explosion sites. We can use that to determine if Poseidon's Blood has been responsible for any other attacks."

"Any other attacks", Coulson asked.

"Yeah. Something you said at graduation got me thinking. What attacks are Poseidon's Blood responsible for that we don't know about? TATP is the answer. We can look into prior explosions around the world and see if TATP was involved in any way. And if it was, we more than likely found an old base or a target of theirs."

"Why would they blow up their own base", Coulson asked.

"Because TATP has killed many talented bomb makers over the years. They would need very steady hands to do it right. So, you never know." Coulson nodded in understanding.

"How confident are you in this plan, Barton", Fury asked.

Clint could tell Fury was serious about the question. Fury hasn't questioned Clint like that in the past. "Very confident, Sir."

"Good. You and Coulson will do the research on this."

"Yes sir", the two said simultaneously.

Clint and Coulson walked to the elevator and stood in silence. They had become so comfortable with one another that silences in the elevator didn't bother them. The elevator opened thirty seconds later. The two walked to Clint's office and grabbed the Poseidon's Blood file Clint was working on.

They went to the conference room on that floor and and started doing research on TATP. Doing that kind of research is difficult because the two are looking at worldwide attacks. And some countries may not specifically state the compounds of the explosives.

They had been at it for a couple of hours now and haven't gotten anywhere. Getting past the six months marker, they both sat back to take a break.

"This is unbelievable", Coulson said. "How can we not find anything?"

"Because identifying TATP is nearly impossible without the right tools", Clint replied.

"What does that mean?"

"They could've been responsible for attacks we've already read about."

Coulson threw his pen on the table. "Of course."

Clint turned his head to look out the window to see Yelena talking to another new agent. "I'll be right back." Clint got up and walked out of the conference room and walked straight to Yelena. "Hey Agent Belova."

Yelena had just finished her conversation with the other agent when she heard an all too recognizable voice behind her. She turned around with a smile. "Agent Barton."

"Congratulations", Clint said as he pulled the woman into a hug. A hug that she gladly reciprocated.

"Thank you", she said when they unwrapped their arms from around each other.

"I'm really proud of you."

Yelena's smile never disappeared and neither did Clint's. In fact, the two were getting closer and closer together. Their faces were only inches apart. They began leaning closer to each other.

"Hey Barton", Coulson's voice rang.

Clint's head turned to look at Coulson. "Yeah?"

"Do you want me to get you some coffee?"

"Please." Coulson nodded to him and walked to the break room. Clint turned his head to Yelena who had clearly stepped back a little bit. "So...Are you and Natasha celebrating?"

"Yep. She's taking me shopping for actual clothes. I'm so ready to get rid of these academy clothes."

"You should burn them."

"Burn them?"

"Yeah. There is something oddly satisfying about burning those cadet clothes."

Yelena smiled. "I'll keep that in mind."

Clint saw Coulson waking back to the conference room with two cups of coffee. "Before I get back to that, where did you get assigned?"

"Here. As a field agent."

Clint smiled. "That's great." Yelena returned the smile. "I should get back to work."

"Yelena nodded. "Okay."

She watched Clint walk back to the conference room. She was a little skeptical about what the two agents were working on, but she knew better than to ask. She was just going to get a "it's classified".

Clint took the seat opposite Coulson and got back to work. That's the rest of their day. Clint and Coulson read through news articles and media posts about terrorist attacks. The two went back and forth on who would get the next cups of coffee; which Clint eventually got tired with so he moved the coffee maker to the conference room. There were a few agents that got inconvenienced but Clint knew they would get over it.

The time finally came, 9:15. Coulson was already packing up his stuff, but Clint was still looking through the news and media. He had now passed a year ago.

"You should go home and get some rest."

Clint chuckled lightly. "Only to come back tomorrow and spend the whole day staring at a computer."

"Doesn't mean you shouldn't get sleep."

Clint stopped reading and leaned back in his chair. "I don't know if I could sleep anyway."

Coulson stared at him for a minute. "Your nightmares are back?"

"They never left", Clint said without looking at him. "These last few missions have been triggering them. I haven't been able to sleep the past two months."

"Do you want to talk about it?"

"No. It won't do anything to help."

Coulson sighed. "Are you trying to sleep?" Clint looked up at him and nodded. "Good. Now go home and come back in the morning well rested."

Clint weakly smiled. "Yes sir."

Coulson smiled back at him and left.

Clint rested his head against his hand. He looked at the items laid out before him. Soon after the hunt for Poseidon's Blood began, he knew it was going to be a long operation. What he wasn't expecting was for it to be this difficult to get anything done.

Knowing that Coulson was right, he started packing up everything he had on the table. He was going to try and sleep anyway. He stacked the papers and notes on top of his computer and walked out of the room.

After stopping at his office and a short drive, he was finally at his apartment. 9:45. He opened the door and slumped down on his couch. He needed sleep. Or a drink. While deciding which one he wanted more, there was a knock on the door. Who would be here this late? Maybe it's Ms. Allice. That sweet old woman had shown so much concern for him ever since she saw him coming home late and worn out.

He walked to the door and looked through the peep hole. He was surprised to not see Ms. Allice standing there but rather the beautiful blonde woman he has strong feelings for. Clint was confused so he opened the door and let Yelena walk in.

This is the first time Yelena is seeing Clint's apartment. It was so warm and inviting. It definitely wasn't what she was expecting a SHIELD agent's apartment to look like. Especially an agent who is always gone. A nice three piece living room set, a decent sized kitchen, and a very beautiful view of the city. How does he afford this?

"Hey Yelena. What are you doing here", Clint asked as he closed the door.

Yelena turned to look at him. Crap, she didn't have an answer for that. "I uh...I wanted to check on you."

Clint quirked his brow. "Check on me?"

That didn't work. "I don't know why I'm here."

Clint smiled softly. "Do you want a drink?" Yelena nodded. "Is beer okay? I don't have any of the good stuff. I haven't been shopping for a while."

"Beer's okay."

Yelena took off her overcoat that she bought a few hours before. She sat down on the couch and sank into it. It was so soft and comfortable. She looked around the apartment as she heard Clint open the fridge. Everything looked so nice. It looked like it was all in a specific place but she smiled when she spotted a few arrows leaning against the wall and some on the floor. He works on them at home too. Yelena's eyes scanned the wall. There wasn't a lot picture wise but then she got to the hole in the wall. Clint walked over and handed her the bottle, and sat down on the opposite side of the couch.

"Thanks", she said taking the bottle. "Where did you get that?"

Clint looked at where she was pointing. "I got that from the night I was attacked. I slammed a guy against the wall. I've cleaned the blood out of the carpet and replaced the broken furniture but I haven't fixed the hole yet."

Yelena nodded. "Looks nice."

Clint laughed. "Thanks." There was a silence that filled the room. The two just sat there and drank. Clint got a little tired of it after a while. "So, what are you doing here?"

Yelena stared at the bottle in her hand. "I honestly don't know." Clint sat there and waited for her to keep talking. "I guess I wanted to see you", she finally said. She turned her head to look at him.

And there were the feelings. He tried so hard to keep them down but that didn't help. "Okay", was all he was able to say.

Now she knew she screwed up. "I uh...I should not have come here", Yelena said. She put the bottle on his table and grabbed her coat. She stood up to leave and Clint quickly reacted.

"Yelena wait", he set his bottle down and grabbed for her arm. He spun her around to look at him. "Why did you come here?"

"I don't know", she replied loudly. Her accent becoming more prominent when she speaks louder.

"Don't lie to me", he said back. He made sure to say it calmly to not scare her. "You're an amazing liar Yelena, but not with me. Why did you come here?"

Yelena couldn't think of anything to say, so she did the only sensible thing she thought she could do. Yelena removed what little space was left between them. She used her free hand to grab the back of his neck and pull him down. She crashed her lips into his. She internally freaked out about how he would react until she felt his hands go to her hips and felt him kiss her back.

After a few seconds, the two broke the kiss. Yelena whined slightly at the loss of contact. "That's why I came here."

Clint smiled and kissed her again. "I'm glad you're here."

Yelena smiled back. "Me too."

Yelena wrapped her arms around Clint's neck and he lifted her so she could wrap her legs around his waist. The two kissed while Clint carried her to the bedroom. He threw her on the bed and climbed on top of her. When their lips made contact again, Yelena instantly grabbed for his shirt. She started pulling it up and Clint left just enough space between them for her to remove it.

She then went for his belt. Clint laid on top of her, once again leaving just enough space for her to maneuver with the belt. Clint's right hand was resting next to her arm on the bed to give him balance while his left hand traced up her thigh. His hand was slowly getting to the space in between them.

It all got better from there.

The Next Morning...

Clint's eyes slowly opened to the sunlight peaking through the window. He rubbed his eyes with his free hand and moved his head to look at the blonde woman resting her head on his bare chest. He smiled, remembering the events from last night. And it was the first night in a long time he was actually able to sleep.

Clint felt Yelena start to stir in his arms. He watched her eyes open and adjust to the sunlight. She rubbed her eyes with her hands; her head never leaving his chest. She adjusted her body so she could look at Clint.

"Morning", Clint said with a smile.

Yelena returned the smile. "Hi." She snuggled closer to him and pushed herself up so her head was on her shoulder. "What time is it?"

"7:15."

"Crap", Yelena said. She threw the sheets off of her. She got out of bed and grabbed her clothes that were scattered all over the floor. "I have to get to Natasha's. I need fresh clothes."

Clint sat up. "You'll be fine. Trust me."

"Yeah, an agent showing up late on the first day is very professional", Yelena replied as she put on her jeans. She grabbed the last item of clothing, her shirt, and put it on.

Clint rolled his eyes and got out of bed. He threw his shirt on and stepped in Yelena's path before she got to the door. "Yelena, calm down." He put his arms on her shoulders and she began calming down. "It's not like you would be the first agent to show up late on their first day."

Yelena smiled at him. "I know, but I won't be one of those agents." Yelena cupped his face with both hands and pulled him down to kiss him softly. "I'll see you at work." She kissed his cheek and walked out of the bedroom.

Clint heard the door close a minute later. He sat on the bed with a very content smile on his face. He was so glad that this finally happened. And now there is only one problem, Natasha. What is she going to say?

Clint spent the next thirty minutes getting ready. After he finally finished, he walked to his car and drove to the Triskelion. He was not ready to spend the whole day in a conference room doing research on TATP or Poseidon's Blood. At least he has something to look forward to now.

He walked through the hall and went to the conference room. His computer and stack of papers and notes in hand. Clint was glad to see Coulson was already working. He opened the glass door and walked in, taking a seat opposite of Coulson like yesterday.

"Hey Barton. You're later than expected."

"Sorry. I had a hard time getting up this morning."

"Nightmares?"

"Nope. I was able to sleep."

Coulson nodded. "That's great." He watched Clint for a few more seconds and noticed a small smile make its way across his face. "What's with the smile?"

Clint looked up from the computer. "What smile?"

"The smile on your face."

"I don't know what you're talking about Coulson."

"Uh huh", was all Coulson said. He didn't push anymore and got to work.

After hours of searching and 4 pots of coffee, Clint and Coulson were finally able to make progress in their search for TATP related attacks. From three years ago but it's still a win.

"Finally", Coulson almost yelled. "I'll inform the Director." Coulson got up and walked to the elevators.
Clint smiled at the absent man's excitement. It was worth it. "Now we just need a motive."

Ten minutes had passed and Clint was still alone in the conference room. He assumed Coulson was still talking to Fury or got distracted. Or needed to be anywhere but in here. He looked up from the computer and saw a few agents walking by, one of them being Yelena. He smiled at her, admiring her new look. She was wearing a uniform similar to Natasha's and had the Widow bite bracelets around her wrists. She also had a thigh holster on her right leg. The most interesting piece of her uniform is perhaps the green vest. SHIELD agents can customize their uniforms to help them in the field but he had never seen someone do a vest before.

Clint won't be able to take his eyes off her. Yelena eventually turned her head to see Clint staring at her. She smiled and walked over to the conference room. Clint quickly shut off his computer and covered the papers. Yelena walked in and went over to Clint. She bent down and stole a quick kiss from him.

"What was that for", Clint asked. "Not that I'm complaining."

"I just felt like kissing you."

"Did Natasha have any questions?"

"A few, but I didn't tell her what we did."

Clint sighed in relief. He wasn't ready to face Natasha. "How's your day?"

Yelena got behind him and put her hands on the back of the chair. "It's been boring. I'm hoping to come over tonight."

Clint leaned his head back. "Really?" Yelena nodded. "You're more than welcome as long as we don't have missions."

"When am I going to go on a mission? I've spent almost two years stuck in this building while watching you and Natasha go and risk your lives. I want to do that too."

Clint laughed. "You'll be sent on a mission soon, I promise. You just have to wait till your skill set is needed."

Yelena smiled. She leaned down and kissed him again. This time her lips lingered. Clint moaned slightly into the touch. He enjoyed the touch of her lips. The warmth and softness was something else. Clint's hand came around her neck and he tugged her head up. She whined from the loss of contact.

"As much as I am enjoying this, I don't think it's a good idea to do it here. At least not in a room with a glass wall so everyone can see. Especially if we are trying to be discrete."

"Fair point", Yelena said, inches from his face. "I'll see you tonight." Yelena kissed his nose and walked out.

Clint couldn't help but watch her walk out. He is so not going to be able to focus now. This will be a very interesting time until he is able to get used to it. Before he could think anymore of it, Coulson walked in talking about what Fury told him. Clint was able to catch some of the words but his mind was still on Yelena.

"Can you believe that", Coulson asked.

"Nope", Clint replied quickly. He was glad Coulson didn't react. He chose the right answer.

"Did you find anything else on the attack?"

"I found the police report", Clint said as he found the notes he took. "All they claim was that the bomber was possibly a disgruntled employee. They had no real suspects or motives."

"How many casualties?"

"173 dead. 45 injured."

"Jesus", Coulson sighed. "How similar is that to the attack a couple of days ago?"

"I don't know. Multiple floors of the building were taken out. Unless we could go and investigate, which we can't because they've rebuilt, we can't know the real target."

"Maybe there are news articles that explain the purposes of each floor."

"Yeah", Clint said, leaning back in his chair and rubbing his eyes. "Maybe."

After a few minutes, Coulson spoke again, "How about you work on looking for news on the building we found and I'll look for more attacks with TATP."

"Yes sir", Clint said. He leaned forward and began working again.

Like the day before, the two agents spent the rest of the day looking through news and media and sat in total silence. The only sounds being heard were the coffee being made and poured into coffee cups and the tapping of keys on keyboards.

The two were so engrossed with their work that they didn't notice agents starting to leave. Not until someone knocked on the window and walked in to talk to Coulson. Clint completely ignored their conversation. After a short conversation, Coulson walked out with the agent that interrupted them. Clint didn't know if Coulson said anything when he walked out.

Clint finally reached a breaking point in his work. His head was spinning, words were becoming blurry, and he was very restless. After packing up his things, Clint went to the garage and got in his car. It was only 9:07. How is he this tired? It must have been all the time he spent looking at the computer. Clint finally made it home and was very tired when he walked through the door. He placed his keys on the counter and froze.

Clint slowly turned around to see Yelena on the couch, looking through a magazine. "Hey. I totally forgot you were coming over." He decided not to ask how she got into the apartment. A part of him has a few ideas of how.

"Whatever you and Coulson are walking on must be important", Yelena chuckled.

"It is", Clint said. Yelena got off the couch and walked over to him. She wrapped her arms around his neck kissed him. When they broke away, Yelena laid her head against his shoulder. "I'm glad you're here", he said after kissing the top of her head.

"Me too."

Clint looked down at her and kissed her. This time their lips stayed connected as Clint guided them to the bedroom.

A Week and a Half Later...

Clint's hands traveled down her back while she kissed him. She was currently on top of him, straddling him with her legs. His head was resting against the bedpost. He was glad they were in bed because what they had just done would have been uncomfortable almost anywhere else.

Yelena let out a low moan as Clint's hands made it to where she wanted them. She sat up slightly, braking the kiss, and the two worked to catch their breath. She smiled and leaned her head against his. Clint smiled and kissed her again.

"That was fun", Clint said still panting.

"Yeah, it was. Definitely a better morning than yesterday."

Clint smiled. "I'm so dead once she gets back."

"Yeah", Yelena said, kissing his neck. "Natasha didn't look happy."

Clint shivered at the thought of Natasha's face when she found out. Yelena only giggled while kissing his neck.

* * * * * *

Clint slowly got out of bed; careful not to wake Yelena. She had just gotten back from her first mission for SHIELD. It was a simple intel extraction but in a very hostile country. When she got back, she instantly saw Natasha. After they spent some time together, Yelena went to Clint's apartment.

He quietly walked to the kitchen and started the coffee pot. He leaned against the counter and let the aroma of the coffee fill the apartment. It really is an intoxicating smell. When it finished brewing, Clint poured himself a cup. He considered going to wake Yelena but she deserved to sleep in for a while longer. Fury makes it a point that every agent returning from a mission takes a day or two off to rest.

Clint took a sip of coffee from his cup. Before he could take another, a soft knock was heard from the door. He quirked his brow. Who would be here this early? Not that he was expecting any company. Clint put his cup down and walked over to the door. He opened it and was face to face with Natasha.

Oh shit. "Hey Nat", Clint managed to get out.

"Hey Clint. You mind if we talk?"

"No, come in." Dammit! Why did he say that? "Want some coffee?"

"I'm okay."

"Okay. What's going on?"

"I think something is wrong with Yelena."

Clint took a drink of coffee. "What do you mean?"

"She hasn't been herself, Clint. We would spend some time together and then she would leave. She wouldn't tell me where she's going. I don't even know where she is right now."

Before Clint could reply, another female voice rang through the apartment. "Clint. Is the coffee ready?"

Natasha turned to the hallway that led to the bedroom and saw Yelena standing there, wearing only Clint's flannel shirt, and frozen in place. Natasha turned to look at Clint. He looked like a deer in headlights. Frozen and scared shitless. She took a step toward Clint.

"This is where Yelena has been this whole time", she gritted through her teeth. Clint didn't answer. "Answer the question, Barton."

Clint looked at Yelena pleadingly. All she did was stare back. He looked back at Natasha, who moved closer and had the death stare in her eyes. "Nat, Yelena came over one night and it just happened."

"It just happened?" Natasha turned to Yelena. Yelena nodded.

"We didn't mean for it to happen", Clint said.

Natasha looked at Clint. He could tell that she was kind of relaxing, but anger was still in control. She was about to speak when her phone buzzed. She took it out of her pocket and read the message from Fury. "You got lucky", Natasha muttered before walking out. She never looked up but Clint knew it was directed toward him.

* * * * * *

"I don't look forward to her coming back", Clint said. Yelena moved off him and snuggled to his side. He wrapped his arm around her and started rubbing her arm.

Yelena laughed. "Do you really think she would hurt you? You are her best friend."

"I wouldn't put it past her?"

Yelena snuggled closer to Clint. "She won't hurt you if I'm around."

"Is your plan to stay around me 24/7?"

"I don't see a problem with that", she said, kissing a scar on his chest.

Clint smiled and kissed her head. Yelena's hand slowly started traveling down Clint's chest. "Me neither."

Like all good times, it has to come to an end. Clint's phone started buzzing on the nightstand. Yelena scooted away from Clint. He grunted and grabbed his phone. He was about to ignore the call but it was Coulson. The only reason Coulson would call this early is for a mission.

"What Coulson", Clint asked very annoyed. "Okay. When?" Yelena watched Clint close his eyes and sigh. "When do we leave?" She knew what that meant. "Okay, I'll be there in 15." Clint got out of bed and started getting dressed.

"You're going on a mission, aren't you", Yelena asked. Clint could hear the sadness in her voice.

"Yeah. Coulson and I leave in an hour."

"Do you know how long you'll be gone", Yelena asked while fidgeting with the sheets.

"No. It's open ended."

"Can you tell me any details about it?"

Clint smiled. "We're being assigned to the Joint Dark Energy Mission Facility. I have to provide overwatch while scientists study an 0-8-4."

Yelena's eyes widened slightly. She wasn't expecting him to say any of that. She decided to see how far she could push her luck. "What's the 0-8-4?"

"Something the S.S.R picked up after World War II. They found it while searching for Steve Rogers. And now, a joint operation by SHIELD, NASA, and the Air Force wants to experiment with the thing. I'm the lucky one who gets to watch."

Clint got the last of his clothes on and grabbed his phone. He was about to leave when he saw Yelena sitting on the bed, staring at her hands. He walked over, cupped her face and kissed her. "I'll see you when I get back." He kissed her forehead and walked out of the bedroom.

Yelena leaned her head against the bedpost and listened as the apartment door closed. She checked her watch and knew she had to get to the Triskelion. Just in case she is needed for a mission.

Notes:

IMPORTANT PLEASE READ: Now the story is at the point of Avengers. Please comment yes or no if you guys want me to write a chapter on the Avengers. It would be like the movie but show more of Clint's side of things. I will also add some communication between Natasha and Yelena.

Chapter 10: Unnecessary Lies?

One Week Later...

The battle of New York marked a new beginning for the world. SHIELD was the only organization that knew the truth of "aliens". And now, the whole world knows the truth. They also know about SHIELD, the Avengers, and all the things Fury tried to keep a secret for a while longer.

Now, Loki was gone. Thor was escorting him back to Asgard, in cuffs. Clint was more than happy to watch him go. Except the happiness disappeared when he got to the Triskelion. Every agent he passed glared at him. They all had found out what he had done. Clint blamed himself enough, he didn't need everyone else reminding him of it.

Natasha was on the Helicarrier with Fury and Hill trying to get things back in order. He refused her invitation to come too, but Clint felt it best that he not go back on to the flying aircraft. He's lost everyone's respect and trust with the events that took place. It didn't matter to them if he was under Loki's control, he still killed so many agents. Worst of all, Coulson was dead.

Four Months Later...

"Coulson's alive", Clint yelled in complete anger.

He couldn't believe what Fury had just told him. His mind was going a million miles a minute. For four months, he blamed himself for Coulson's death. And now Fury is saying otherwise.

"Yes", Fury said calmly. Clearing ignoring Clint's angry tone.

"Coulson's alive", Clint asked again. Quieter than before but still really shocked. Fury nodded. Clint opened his mouth to respond but not a sound came out. He didn't know what to say in this situation.

Clint stumbled back. His heel hit the leg of the chair behind him and he was about to fall back if he didn't catch himself in time. Clint took a deep breath to calm down.

"How? Was he even dead in the first place?"

"Yes, Barton. Coulson was dead."

"Then how was he brought back? He was stabbed through the heart with an alien spear."

"Coulson was revived through a process called Project TAHITI. A project I designed to bring a dead Avenger back in case one of you was killed in battle."

Clint was in a complete state of shock. "How long?"

"How long what?"

"How long has he been alive?"

Fury took a second before answering. "Three months."

Clint's shock instantly turned to anger. "You're telling me that Coulson has been alive for months and you didn't feel the need to tell anyone? Or me in particular?"

"It's Level 8, Barton. You're Level 7."

"Oh fuck your levels Fury. I've been beating myself up for four months when I didn't have to be. You, or Coulson himself, could have spared me that pain."

Clint turned around and walked out of Fury's office before his boss could respond. He was so angry that he didn't hear Fury yelling for him to stop. There was so much pain, sorrow, and anguish that could have been avoided if he had known.

Walking out of the elevator, not knowing which floor he was on, he walked to the nearest empty room. The other agents in his path avoided him, it very clear on his face that he's angry. Clint walked in and shut the door with a slam. Apparently he walked into a conference room.

He sat down at the table and just stared at the television screen on the wall. His reflection starting back. He didn't even bother turning on the lights when he walked into the room. Why would Fury lie to him about Coulson? If anything, Clint should have known right away. He deserved to know. Right?

"Want to explain what you're doing here", a female voice asked.

Clint turned in his chair to look at the face of Maria Hill. "Did you know?" Clint purposefully ignoring her question.

"Yes", Hill replied. She knew exactly what the angry agent was talking about.

Clint shut his eyes in anger and disgust. "Why didn't you tell me?"

"Fury ordered me not to tell you. Or any of the Avengers for that matter."

"Not good enough, Hill. You know I deserved to know."

"Clint", Hill started. "I wanted to tell you. I really did, but we had to keep it a secret."

"For what purpose?"

"You're going to want to ask Fury."

"That's not happening", Clint said with a disgusted laugh.

Hill didn't know what to say any further in the conversation. She agrees with what Clint had told her. Clint and the Avengers deserve to know about Coulson. Not knowing what to do, Hill left the room.

"Why wouldn't they tell me", Clint asked quietly. "Coulson is still alive."

After a while, Clint got out of the chair and left the room. He found Natasha in the training center beating the shit out of the punching bag. She was going to be hitting that thing harder once he finished talking to her. He pulled her aside, away from everyone else in the room, and told her the truth. It didn't shock her the way it did him but Clint could tell she was hurt.

When Natasha was kind of able to process what he said, she got back to punching the bag. A lot harder this time. Clint left the room quickly after that. He had to find Coulson. And there is one person, besides Fury and Hill, that may know where he is, if she knows he's alive.

Clint walked to all the places he knew May liked to hang out. And he couldn't find her. After some more searching, Clint came up empty. Where the hell is May?

Clint eventually got to his office and slumped down on the couch in defeat. He's been dealing with so much lately, and now this Coulson thing has his head reeling. There had to be something that he was missing. May doesn't go to many places. Then a sudden realization came to him. He hasn't seen May around the Triskelion to much in the past three months, but when he did see her, she was on the landing pad.

Clint got up and ran to the landing pad he always saw May standing on. And his suspicion was right. He opened the doors to the pad, and saw a giant black plane having supplies being brought onto it. And May was at the base of the freight door, supervising. Clint hastily walked over and stood behind her.

"How long have you been flying this thing", Clint asked.

May turned and smiled at him. "I think you know the answer to that."

"Three months?" May nodded. That caused Clint's rage to spike again. "So you knew too", he managed to say through his anger.

"Yeah, I did. Coulson recruited me to his new team."

"New team?"

"That's right, Barton", an all to familiar voice said. Clint looked to the entrance of the hold and saw the man he had been grieving for for months. "I have a new team. Care to join us up here?"

Clint clenched his fists. He started walking up the ramp with May close behind. Getting to the top, he was slightly taken aback by the sight. What did catch his eye, was the small huddle of people in front of what looked to be a lab. Damn, now he's a little jealous. He instantly recognized Grant Ward and Jemma Simmons. He also saw a shorter man, in comparison to Ward, that he had seen walking around the Triskelion with cadets. Who he didn't recognize was the young woman standing next to Jemma.

"Welcome to the Bus", Coulson said, turning to look at Clint.

Clint took that as his opportunity. Holding nothing back, Clint punched Coulson square in the face. Coulson stumbled back, holding his jaw. The others in the plane instantly reacted. May stepped in front of Clint, Jemma and the unfamiliar man helped Coulson regain balance, the woman stood their shocked, and Ward hovered his hand over the icer in his holster.

Once Coulson was able to stand on his own, he looked at Clint. Then he looked at the others, then back at Clint. He forgot how hard Clint could punch when angry. He could see the anger in the younger agent's eyes, but past that anger was something else. Sadness. Betrayal. Pain. Coulson could also see tears starting to form in Clint's eyes. Tears of a broken man.

"It's okay, May. Let him go", May moved to the side but stayed close to Clint. "I deserved that."

"You think", Clint almost whispered. The others in the Bus staying silent.

"Leave us", Coulson ordered. May walked over to the group and started motioning to the others to go up the stairs.

"I'm not leaving", Clint heard Ward say.

"Go", Coulson barked. That tone shocked everyone, even May. He looked back at Clint. Once he was sure they were alone, he started speaking. "Look Clint, I want to apologize."

"Don't Coulson. I'm done hearing excuses."

"It's not an excuse, Barton..."

"I'm not done", Clint yelled. "When Fury told me, I wanted to find you to get your explanation. But now that I'm looking at you, I'm just more angry. More upset. More everything."

"I'm sorry."

"Why did you lie to me", Clint asked almost immediately after Coulson said that. "I'm not surprised Fury lied. Or Hill. Or even May for that matter. I wouldn't even be surprised if Natasha and Yelena lied to me, but you? I would never expect you to lie to me."

"What can I say to make this better", Coulson asked. He didn't want to fight with Clint. Nothing good would come of it. There's that and Clint can easily kick his ass.

"There's nothing you can do. I get the whole following orders thing and keeping secrets but this is something else." Clint turned and walked off the plane.

Coulson watched Clint walk away until he couldn't see him anymore. Once he was out of sight, Coulson turned and walked up the spiral staircase. He walked up and through the main common area of the Bus. The others were sitting and talking at the bar. They watched him walk past them without saying a word.

"Everything okay boss" Ward asked.

No reply.

May stepped forward and started following Coulson. She followed him to his office and closed the door.

"I told Fury this was going to happen. I knew this would happen."

"You knew Barton would punch you?"

"I didn't know he would do that", Coulson said while massaging his jaw. "But it was warranted."

"Yeah, and so will the next one."

"What next one?"

"The one you will definitely receive when Clint discovers the truth about Skye."

Coulson slumped down in his chair and let out a groan. "I completely forgot about that."

"You should tell him."

"So I can get punched sooner?"

"So you can start rebuilding trust with him." Coulson didn't reply. "You and Clint have a special bond. A bond not easily broken. You know things about his past that no one knows. Not even me. The bond broke when Clint discovered the truth about you. If you tell him about Skye before he finds out any other way than you two can start rebuilding that bridge of trust. You and I both know having Clint Barton's trust is important."

Coulson sighed. "I know. I'll tell him."

"And do it soon. I hear that he's been making great strides in his Poseidon's Blood research."

Coulson was still massaging his jaw. "Did you teach him that hook?"

"That was all him", May said with a smile.

Coulson returned the smile.

Clint got back to his office and slammed the door behind him. He was so angry and upset. And he didn't even know why. He should be happy that Coulson is alive. His friend and long time ally is back. But all Clint could think about is how angry he is. At Fury, Coulson, Hill, and May. He was just angry at the world.

He sat down on the couch and put his face in his hands. His emotions were so rampant that he can't seem to calm down enough to process it all. Clint was so engrossed in his thoughts that he didn't look up to see who opened the door. He heard footsteps get closer and closer to him but he never looked up. He breathed in and jolted slightly when the person out a hand on his shoulder.

"Are you okay", a female voice asked. Clint breathed out. He knew and trusted the person the hand and voice belonged too. Clint shook his head in reply. "Can I do anything to help?"

"No", he managed to get out. Clint felt a weight next to him. The hand on his shoulder had moved to rest on the back of his neck. "Thank you."

"For what?"

"Being here", Clint replied while rubbing his temples. He was beginning to calm down but this was different. He doesn't know if he could ever get past these feelings completely. "I don't know what to do."

"That's a first", she said with a laugh. Clint laughed lightly and turned his head to look at her. Her head was resting on his shoulder. Clint placed a soft kiss on her head.

"I beat myself up for so long. And then Fury comes out with Coulson being brought back."

"What happened to him wasn't your fault. I've been trying to tell you that for four months. And so has Natasha."

"It wasn't completely my fault. I still attacked the damn carrier, let Loki out, and then...Yeah, it's my fault."

"No it's not", she whispered. Her head never leaving his shoulder.

Clint smiled at her. He found it a little strange that she becomes so soft around him. She doesn't like to be touched, unless its by him or Natasha. She's a hardass with everyone else. He's the same way. There is only a small handful of people who he is okay with touching him.

"I have to get to work", Clint said after ten minutes.

"Okay." Yelena kissed his cheek and got up to leave. She closed the door behind her when she left.

After a minute of composing himself, Clint got off the couch and sat at his desk. The desk was covered in papers of research on TATP and Poseidon's Blood. There were also pictures of tall office buildings and smaller warehouses. They were paper clipped to specific stacks of research.

Clint grabbed the photos on the stack with a post it note that said 2003. He began examining it closely. He then set it down and started searching something on the computer. And then wrote stuff down.

If anyone asked him what he spent the last four months doing, it was this. Clint was removed from field duty when he returned to SHIELD after New York. Fury and Pierce made it mandatory that he see a therapist to evaluate his condition. And until the therapist clears him, he is to be behind a desk.

Se every Tuesday and Friday, Clint would go see the therapist. He could see no better way to waste two hours of his week. All he was told was that he had to go, the two superiors said nothing about him actually talking to the person.

Clint still hasn't been cleared. There are only two things he actually enjoyed about not doing field work. He gets to do research on TATP and hopefully find Poseidon's Blood and he gets to spend time with Yelena.

There was one thing that Clint was still being bothered by. The woman that was on the Bus. Who was she? He had never seen her around the Triskelion before. His curiosity soon go the better of him.

Clint looked at the personnel files of the new field analysts. She just had that look about her. She's only been around for less than four months so she shouldn't be hard to find. One minute later and there she was. Her name was Skye. And she had quite the impressive record. Clint was shocked by what he was reading. He scrolled through her file and stopped when he thought he saw something familiar. Clint looked at it again and his rage once again took the wheel. Of course it's after he managed to calm down.

"That son of a bitch", Clint almost yelled. He clenched his fists and it took all his willpower to not punch the computer. "He fucking lied again." Then a knock on the door. "What", he yelled. The door opened and in walked May.

And Coulson.

"You son of a bitch." Clint walked around the desk and was about to be directly in front of Coulson had May not stepped in front of him. "You lied to me again."

May looked back at Coulson. "Told you we were pushing the time limit."

"Clint, let me explain."

"Explain what Coulson? You lied to me again. Fury lied to me. Hill lied to me. Even you lied to me, May."

"We were going to tell you", May said.

"When?"

"Well right now. Had your suspicions not beat us to the punch."

Clint's fists began shaking in anger. "You brought a member of the Rising Tide to SHIELD", he gritted through his teeth.

"Clint, let me explain."

"No", Clint yelled. His office door was still open so the agents outside all looked in the direction of his office. "I'm tired of listening to everyone's excuses. Ever since I was recruited to SHIELD, I've only trusted four people. And all four lost my trust with the same lie." Clint turned around and walked back to his desk. "Get out."

"Clint...", Coulson started.

"Get out", he yelled. Clint didn't even turn his head.

May turned to look at Coulson. He nodded and motioned for the door. She looked back at Clint, who still had his back turned to the two, and walked out of the office. Coulson was about to leave when he looked at Clint.

"I'm sorry", Coulson whispered. He knew Clint heard it though. Coulson turned and left.

Clint listened for the door. When he heard the door click, he started crying. He dropped down onto his knees and leaned his head against the desk, still crying.

Hurt, anger, betrayal, and sadness all came out.

Chapter 11: Mind Games

Clint couldn't even focus on his work. He was feeling everything all at once. He lost track of time, he thinks, because his legs are so sore when he finally stands from that position. His phone said 8:37. He spent six hours like that. On his knees, head against the desk, and suffering from all the guilt and pain he felt.

He doesn't want to deal with anything else right now. Or anyone else for that matter. If he was being honest, even Yelena would be a bit of a stretch right now. He just needs to be alone to process everything the day had thrown at him. And the best way to do that is to go home before anything else happens.

The twenty minute drive home went as usual as it could, much to Clint's delight. When he arrived at his apartment building, he went straight to his door. He ignored everyone who tried to stop him, even Ms. Allice. Ignoring his sweet, old neighbor wasn't something he normally does.

He opened the door and walked in. He walked straight to the bedroom and fell face down onto his bed. Clint fell on Yelena's side of the bed, so her scent enveloped his senses when he hit the bed. He felt relief breathing in her scent.

When he managed to push himself off the bed, he went to the shower. Clint has therapy in the morning and was going to shower when he woke up, but he has to feel the hot water on him now. He stripped out his clothes upon entering the bathroom and stepped into the shower. He loved the feeling of the water running down his body. Especially when he was sore. Clint twinged slightly when the water touched the scars on his arms. The scars that he got when he crashed through a window to avoid getting blown up by Chitauri.

Seven minutes passed and Clint stepped out. He wrapped a towel around his waist and stood at the sink. He stared at his reflection in the mirror. His eyes wandering to all the different scars that covered him. The scars of working at SHIELD. He didn't have a lot of them but the ones he does have are very obvious.

"How much does this job take from you", a voice asked. It sounded a lot like his but deeper. It's not the first time he's heard the voice either.

"I don't pay attention to what I lose anymore", Clint replied.

"Not since the night you lost your heart."

Clint's grip around the sink tightened. "I'm not listening to you."

"Yes you are because you know you can't get rid of me. In fact, today was the closest we've gotten since you gave me up."

"I'm not gonna let you take control."

"Why not? The anger is good. The release is better. You should let your anger out again. I'm in the passenger seat. I can take the wheel whenever I want to take it."

"I'm still in control. I won't let you take it without a fight."

"What are you scared of? Why don't you want to let me out?" There was silence for a moment. Clint thought it was over until, "It's her, isn't it? She doesn't know the truth and you're scared of how she will react."

"No", Clint said quietly.

"Yes. You know I'm right. Why are you scared of her knowing about us?"

"You aren't in control anymore. You don't make my decisions."

Clint started hearing laughter. "If she can't accept your past, then how do you think she will act when I do come out to play? You can't keep me chained forever." Then the voice stopped.

Clint breathed a sigh of relief. The voice started shortly after Clint was freed from Loki's control. He doesn't remember anything, but that damn scepter really did a number on him.

Clint put on a t-shirt and sweats, and went to bed. He breathed in Yelena's scent and let it lull him to sleep. His tiredness was a contributing factor too. He was thankful that Yelena didn't argue with him about not coming over. He knew it was better for him and her if she let him be alone.

Sleep finally overtook him.

Clint's eyes slowly opened to the sunlight peeking through the window blinds. He slowly sat up in bed and leaned his back against the wall. He knew it was past the time he would usually get ready for work, but since it's a therapy day, he gets to sleep in and not leave until 8:45. It was 7:15 now and he decided to get ready.

Clint dragged himself out of bed and made a beeline for the shower. He was quicker than the one he took the previous night. He put on a nicer set of clothes that consisted of jeans, a t-shirt, and a plaid shirt to go over the t-shirt. One thing he did enjoy about Tuesday's and Friday's is that he gets to wear civilian clothes instead of a uniform.

After Clint got ready, including eating breakfast and drinking his two or three cups of coffee, he drove to the therapist's office. It was about thirty minutes away from his apartment. And after the hour, he would drive the forty minutes to the Triskelion.

"So Clint, how are you feeling today", Tanya Oliver asked.

"Great. Couldn't feel more normal."

Clint watched her write something down. "Why do you always say that?"

Clint smiled. "What do you mean?"

"You always say the same thing, Clint. I ask you how you are and you reply with 'great'."

"I don't always say that."

Tanya smiled. "Yes, you do. I have it written down. Since we started this, you've given me that same answer."

"Are you asking me to give you a different answer?"

"Not a different one, Clint. An honest one." Clint's smile faded and his eyes wandered from hers. "Your boss told me that you suffer from nightmares. He also said that when you do have one, you become very defensive."

"I don't become defensive", he almost yelled. Clint's eyes widened slightly at his tone. "Sorry."

"It's alright", she said with a smile. "Answer honestly Clint, how are you feeling?"

"I meant it when I said it, Doc. I'm fine."

"Except you're not. Clint, I cannot clear you for field work until you actually start telling me the truth."

"There is nothing to say."

Tanya put the notepad down on the table and clasped her hands together. She leaned forward and looked Clint right in the eye. "You have an amazing ability to hide your feelings. To deflect every question I throw at you. I've never had a patient more stubborn than you. Never. So I am going to come out with it. I know you're lying to me. I know you're hiding things from me. I can't figure out why. What are you afraid of telling me?"

Clint looked down at his fidgeting hands. He wished he had something in his hands to distract him. "The truth", he muttered. "I'm afraid of the truth."

"You're afraid of telling me the truth?"

"No." Clint looked up at her. "Not you."

"Then who?"

"Yelena."

Tanya nodded. "Why are you afraid of her knowing the truth?"

"I don't know what she'll think of me."

"You said in an earlier session that she helps you calm down. Was she with you last night?"

"No. I wanted to be alone last night."

"Why?"

"Because it was better that way."

"Clint, what happened that made you not want to have your girlfriend with you?"

"She's not my girlfriend."

"Sorry. What happened that made you not want to have Yelena with you ?"

"That friend of mine, the one who got stabbed through the heart, is alive."

"He is", Tanya asked with slight shock. "How?"

"A project that Fury created to bring back a dead Avenger."

Tanya nodded and wrote some things down. "How did you react to his return?"

"Not well", Clint said clenching his fist.

"What do you mean?"

"He's been alive for three months. It was only yesterday that they told me the truth", Clint said. His voice was slowly rising. "They all lied to me". Clint felt a tear roll down his cheek. He knew he wouldn't be able to stop it now. "They lied to me", he whispered.

"Who lied, Clint?"

"All of them. They all knew and never told me."

Tanya knew getting names would be useless so she jumped to her next question. "Did anyone else know?"

"Not anyone I trusted."

"You trusted? Why the past tense?"

"Why do you think? The four people that I've relied on, that I've trusted since I was recruited to SHIELD lied to my face. How can I trust them after that?"

Tanya did not answer.

"I've given my life to SHIELD. My heart. They weren't able to tell me the truth. How am I supposed to work with people I can't trust?" He yelled all of that.

"That's a good question", Tanya said, putting down the notepad. "One I can't answer."

Clint laughed. "Of course you can't."

After a minute, Tanya spoke again. "If you don't mind me asking, what truth are you afraid of Yelena knowing?" Clint remained silent as he stared out the open window in Tanya's office. "Okay. Why don't you tell me about Coulson."

Clint took a deep breath before starting to talk. He started telling her all about Coulson. He told her about some of the missions they've done, how he celebrates post-mission, he even told her about Coulson's special car. For the first time in months, Clint was actually able to smile at memories of Coulson.

"That's our hour", Tanya said when Clint finished one of his stories.

"Thanks for the help, Doc", Clint said while standing. "I'll see you Friday."

"One more thing before you leave."

"Yeah?"

"It's going to take a lot of time but I do think there is room in your heart to forgive them."

Clint nodded. "Just not today." He walked out of the office.

Clint started thinking about the session on the drive to the Triskelion. That was the most he has talked since he first started going. And today did help him. He didn't feel much anger towards Coulson anymore. There was still anger but not as much as before. Anger and forgiveness toward Fury might be a little different.

When Clint arrived at the Triskelion, he went straight to his office. The problem with this therapy thing is he loses an hour to do research. Research hr desperately needs to get done because he is on the verge of a breakthrough. He didn't even bother changing into his uniform; he just got right to work.

He examined photos, looked at case files, and typed on the computer. Ever since New York, Clint has taken it upon himself to find Poseidon's Blood and take them down. The problem is, each time he got closer, he got further. Whoever is leading them knows how SHIELD operates. And the list of SHIELD enemies who know how even he operates is very, very short.

"Hey Barton."

Clint looked up and saw Captain America standing at the entrance of his office. Apparently he forgot to close his door. "Hey Cap."

"You mind if I come in?"

"Not at all. You're the only one with courtesy to ask." Steve walked in, placed his shield against a chair, and sat down on the chair next to it. "What can I do for you?"

"I heard what happened yesterday."

Clint sighed. Dammit. "Yeah?" Steve nodded. "Then you know I punched Coulson?"

"I did. I was surprised when Natasha told me about that."

"Nat told you about that?"

"She did."

"Please tell me you're not going to ask me what was going through my head."

Steve smiled. "I won't. Natasha and Yelena told me that you were pretty angry at everyone."

Clint nodded. "Everyone pissed me off. How did you react?"

"Better than you."

Clint smiled. "Everyone responded better than I did."

Steve laughed. "I'm gonna spar with Romanov. You wanna join?"

Clint looked at the stack of papers on his desk than back at Steve. "I have a lot of work to do."

"Alright." Steve got up and grabbed the shield.

"Careful Super Soldier", Clint said. Steve turned to look at the archer. "Romanov punches harder than every member of your Strike Team."

Steve smiled. "Thanks for the warning, Barton. I'll see you later."

"See ya, Cap."

Clint got right back to work when Steve left. He did inform Steve about Poseidon's Blood, but only what he felt the soldier had to know. There were details that he couldn't explain or Fury would explain. Just later. So Steve now knows as much as the Widows, May, and Hill. Except Steve doesn't know about GHOST Protocol, much like Yelena.

Clint spent the rest of the day in his office. He was visited by Natasha and Yelena at one time or another. He was glad that no one else tried to visit him.

Clint took one of the pictures of an office building and started thinking. TATP is not easily detected. Considering the number of explosions he found caused by TATP, 13, and the intensity of each explosion, Poseidon's Blood had to be getting its components in large portions. Then it clicked in his mind.

Bleach. The answer is bleach.

Clint remembered back to the first time he responded to a TATP explosion in Baghdad. It was more gas than flame, which is a clue as to knowing it's TATP, but the bigger one is the smell. The entire blast radius smelled like bleach. A detail Clint hasn't forgotten to this day. And he finally got to breath a sigh of relief he has been holding since he and Coulson started this search since before New York.

It's a little premature to celebrate early, sure, but Clint has been looking for the clue like this for a long time. Not going on field missions means twelve hours everyday staring at a computer. Essentially his job description for the past four months. And some prior to New York.

Clint was exhausted . Apparently staring at a screen all day can be quite excruciating. He definitely didn't give agents in Administration or analysts enough credit. He was to tired to work any longer and started to get ready to leave. Before he left his office, he programmed his computer to run a search for large shipments of bleach that were hijacked on route to convenience stores and other stores that sold them.

After that, he packed up his things and went to the garage. He drove back to his apartment in a good mood. A mood he hasn't genuinely been in for a long time. Once he arrived, Clint walked up the stairs to his floor. He was pleased to see Yelena standing there, waiting for him.

"I'm glad you waited outside my door this time", Clint said with a small smile.

Yelena smiled back. "You've had a long day. I decided to be nice."

Clint wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close. Her boots practically sliding across the floor. "Thank you", he whispered before kissing her. Yelena moaned into the kiss.

The two broke apart when they heard the door opposite Clint's own open. "Clint, there you are", said Ms. Allice.

Clint smiled and gave the old woman a hug. "It's good to see you", he said, unwrapping his arms from around the woman.

"Why have you been coming home so late?"

Clint smiled. "I've been very busy."

"Oh Clint. You need to take better care of yourself."

"I am trying to do that. I promise."

Ms. Allice smiled at him. "Good. Who's this", she asked, turning to Yelena.

Clint turned to look at Yelena. Right, the two of them somehow haven't met even though Yelena has been sleeping here for almost five months. "This is Yelena."

"What a beautiful name", she said as she took Yelena's extended hand in her own. "Have you been taking good care of my boy?"

Yelena used all her strength to hold in a laugh. She turned her head and looked at Clint to see him slightly embarrassed. Slightly. "I have been", she was able to say.

"Good. He really needs looking after."

"Yes he does", Yelena replied.

"Anyway, I need your help."

"What's wrong", Clint asked once he was able to compose himself.

"Oh nothing. I just need help lifting something in the morning."

"I would love to help you."

"Thank you, Clint." She turned to look at Yelena. "I need someone with muscles."

Yelena smiled and held in a bigger laugh than the one before. She nodded and saw Clint's cheeks grow red.

"I'll see you in the morning", Clint said. "Have a good night."

"You two as well", she said with a smile. She winked at Yelena before walking into her apartment.

This time Yelena's cheeks grew red. She quickly walked through the door when Clint opened it. "You're her boy", she asked when Clint closed the door.

He started laughing. "Don't judge. She's been looking after me for eight years. She can call me whatever she wants."

Yelena laughed. "Okay." Clint walked over to her, wrapped his arms around her, and kissed her. "Where were we", she asked when they broke apart.

Clint lifted her up and she instinctively wrapped her arms around his neck and legs around his waist. He carried her to the bedroom and threw her on the bed. He climbed on top of her and the two tore each other's clothes off. The two of them really need each other. One night without sex and they are at it like rabbits.

A couple of hours later, the two were just laying in bed. Yelena was already asleep with her head resting on his chest. Clint's arm was wrapped around her, keeping her close to him. Sleep soon came quickly to him. Yelena's presence was very comforting to him and let him fall asleep without issue.

The darkness and peace of his mind soon changed.

A warehouse. A warehouse at night. What is happening? Suddenly, he is inside the warehouse; watching guards, with Ak-47's, walk around the interior of the building. Why's the warehouse familiar? So much of this is familiar. The biggest guard walked to the middle of the room and then the lights went out. Then there was a loud crashing sound.

An all black figure was standing on the biggest guard. Then he moved into the shadows. The other guards were shooting and running around the building. Some were yelling for lights, others were yelling for the location of the intruder. The figure took guards down left and right. They weren't able to move fast enough to catch him. It's like he knew what was coming before they could do anything.

The guards on the second level tried to fire on the figure too but they couldn't see him either. He moved like a ghost. There one second, gone the next. Before any of them knew it, the figure was on the second level. He was either throwing them over the railing or killing them on the spot. None of them were able to escape him.

Snapping the neck of the second to last guard, the figure walked closer to the last guy. This guard was cornered, out of ammo, and very scared. The moonlight shone through the window next to the guy, the light illuminated the figure. The figure was covered in blood, blood dripping down the gauntlets he wore, blood dripping down the sword he was holding, and the light reflected off of the gold lining on the black suit. All the guard could see of the figure's face were the eyes. A mask, matching the suit, was covering the rest of his face.

Before the guard could make anything of what he was seeing, he felt hot liquid start to run down his neck. It was also becoming hard for him to bring in breath. The guard put his hand on his neck to try to stop the bleeding but it was to late. The figure grabbed the sides of the guard's head and twisted. A loud crack and the body fell to the floor.

Then it all changed again.

Now he was on the Helicarrier. Tactical agents dressed in SHIELD gear running past him. He knew what this was, the day he broke Loki out and Coulson died.

Suddenly he was in the vents of the Carrier. The same place where he and Natasha fought. He put his hands out in front of him and saw the blood stained gloves. He turned around saw it. No! This can't be happening! He was staring at Natasha's body. She had cuts all along her chest and arms. And a large cut on her neck. This isn't real. This isn't real.

He was back on the deck of the Carrier. The tac agents he was with were firing at actual SHIELD agents. Something felt different. He looked down to his hands and froze. He was holding Yelena by the throat in his left hand and in his right hand was a knife. A knife that was dangerously close to her neck. She was trying to fight back but she didn't have the strength. No, this can't happen! Please! Don't let this happen! The pleas of his mind proved useless. He did it. He watched the life leave her body as the knife slid across her neck getting covered in blood.

Clint shot up in bed, panting. He looked over to Yelena and began to breathe easier when he saw that she was sleeping peacefully. He ran his hand through his hair and realized how sweaty the nightmare made him become.

Clint carefully threw the sheets off him, and got out of bed. He was careful not to wake Yelena. He pulled on his underwear and pants that he could find but ignored the shirt. He walked to the bathroom and turned on the sink. He let the water fill up in his hands and threw it in his face. The cold water sent a shiver down his spine but it was welcome. He brought his head up to look at the mirror and saw the curse of his nightmares.

The figure dressed in all black with gold lining. And had blood covering much of the surface area of the suit.

"Hello again", he said.

Finally, a voice and face together. "What do you want?" He whispered not to startle Yelena because he really wanted to scream.

"Nothing. I finally got what I wanted."

"What's that?"

"Freedom." Clint heard the figure start to laugh. "Loki's scepter gave me freedom from your control." Clint could feel his hands, resting on the sink, start to clench. "You and I are one in the same, but you no longer have any control over me. And now, let's see how long you will remain at the wheel."

That was all it took. With all his power, Clint punched the mirror. It was like he watched it in slow motion. He saw it all. The mirror slowly shatter and pieces begin to fall off. He looked down at his blood stained fist. Small shards of the mirror were in his hand. It was also shaking very badly. He knew that the sound of the mirror shattering would have woken Yelena. He held his hand and heard movement outside the bathroom. Most likely Yelena looking for something to cover herself with.

"Clint, are you okay?" Yelena walked in and saw the shattered to pieces mirror. Then she looked at him holding his hand and his back to her. "What happened?" Clint slowly turned around and Yelena saw the blood on his hand. She grabbed it with her hands and looked at it. "My god, Clint." Yelena grabbed the first aid kit from under the sink and guided him to the bed. "Sit down."

Clint sat down on the bed and watched Yelena crouch down between his legs and grab something from the kit. "Careful", he said. "There are small shards of the mirror in my hand."

"I see them", she replied. She grabbed tweezers and got to work. "What happened Clint?"

"I think the scene is self explanatory."

"Not as much as you might think", Yelena said looking up at him.

Clint sighed. "I was angry."

"Why", she asked as she grabbed a small piece of the mirror out. Clint flinched at the pain. "Sorry", Yelena said softly when she saw she hurt him.

"It's okay", he breathed.

"Why were you angry?"

Clint hesitated at the question. He knew there was no more hiding the truth. But he didn't want to tell her the truth because he didn't want her leaving him.

"Clint", she said. He looked at her. "What is going on", she asked softly.

"There is something I have to tell you."

"Then say it", she said now pouring alcohol on gauze to dabbing certain parts of his hand with it.

"I don't think I can", he said.

Yelena looked at him. "Do you mean it's classified?"

"Not this time", he said. That's not completely true. It is his choice on who gets to know. "I just don't know how you're gonna react."

Yelena finished cleaning his hand then put everything back in the kit. She then placed her hands on his cheeks to make him look at her. "You have nothing to be scared of, Clint. Just tell me."

Clint reached his hands up and placed them over hers. He took a second and soaked in her touch. It may be the last time he gets to enjoy it. "Okay." Yelena got up and sat down next to him.

Clint started telling her the truth. The whole truth. He told her about GHOST Protocol and about the dreams. He was glad that she knew everything now. Her reaction less so. She was mortified, shocked, and uneasy by what he told her. She was also upset with him. Upset that he didn't say anything sooner. Much sooner. They spent fifteen minutes on that.

When Clint did stop talking, Yelena was trying to process it all. Clint, knowing all to well what that's like, went to the kitchen to start the coffee pot. It was only 3:45 but neither of them would be able to sleep now. Thirty minutes passed and Clint was still alone in the kitchen and on his second cup.

Yelena finally walked into his view. It was 4:27 according to the clock on the wall. He watched her as she walked over to him, wrapped her arms around his torso, and kiss him. The kiss definitely caught him off guard. She pulled away and nestled her head under his chin. He slowly wrapped his arms around her body and enjoyed her touch.

"Not that I didn't enjoy the kiss, but I need context."

He felt Yelena laugh lightly against his chest. "I'm not angry at you for hiding that secret. You know I have secrets too. Things I don't want coming out. I just wish you told me sooner than this."

"I wanted to tell you but I didn't want you to walk out on me. Pretty pathetic huh?"

Yelena lifted her head from his chest to look at him. "I'm still here, Clint", she whispered. "But yeah, it's pathetic." Clint smiled at her and kissed her again.

This time their lips lingered. Clint pushed her against the counter and lifted her onto it. His hands wandered down to the hem of the shirt she was wearing. It was the plaid shirt he wore the day before so it was all she had to wear, which made things a lot easier. Yelena's hands traveled around Clint's bare chest. Admiring the feel of his muscles and scars on his body. Once Clint lifted the shirt over her head, Yelena's hands wandered to the waistband of Clint's sweats.

This is not a first for them. They've done it in the kitchen a lot. The first was they were doing it at four in the morning.

Clint felt like a huge weight has been lifted off his shoulders. There were still secrets he kept from her but those are ones that are classified. And another secret, regarding a blind vigilante only known to Clint, he will keep in order to protect the identity of the man involved. And keep him off of SHIELDs radar.

Once they finished their little thing in the kitchen and had a quickie in the shower, the two got ready to leave. Because Yelena spent so much time at his apartment, she started keeping clothes there just in case she couldn't get to Natasha's apartment.

When the two of them got to the Triskelion, Clint instantly went to Fury's office. He had to be notified that Yelena knows about GHOST Protocol now. Yelena went to find Natasha. The redhead was very pleased to hear that Yelena finally knows.

Clint finished talking with Fury and he was about to go to his office when the memories of the nightmare came back. He went to his office and grabbed a key from his desk. He went back to the elevator and went down to the level just above the shooting range. This level and the one above it are storage levels.

Clint walked to one of the doors closer to the back of the hallway. He punched in the code to open the door and it slid open. There was a bunch of containers in the room. Each were stacked on top of one another in rows and organized by year of case involved.

He walked to the back of the room where he knew the crate was placed. He grabbed it off the shelf and opened it with the key from his office. Clint stared at its contents. An all black suit. The gold lining being revealed by the light bouncing off it. And armor that matched the suit. He reached into it and pulled out a clack hilt.

"Look at you", a familiar voice said. "Your nightmare scared you to the point of having to see the suit?"

Clint turned around and saw the haunting figure standing there. "You're just always around, aren't you?"

"I'm with you forever, Clint." Clint clutched the hilt tighter. "Everything that's happening and you still can't accept it."

"Accept what?"

"Accept that this is who we are. It's who you are."

"No. This is not who I am."

The figure laughed. "It's exactly who you are. You really think you can hide from it, don't you? You're being forced to confront your past, Clint. You've had a year and a half to hide. Now I'm back and you are no longer the only one holding the wheel."

Clint pushed a button on the hilt and a blade extended from it. "I won't let you take control", he yelled.

"You already have, Clint. We're one in the same."

The voice stopped and Clint sighed. He held up the sword in his hand and looked at it. "No", he said silently. "This is who I was. Not who I am." The blade retracted back into the hilt and Clint put it back in the crate.

He put the crate back in its spot on the shelf and walked out of the room. On the way back to his office, he started thinking about the conversation he had. "I'm being forced to confront my past", Clint said quietly. "What does that mean?"

The elevator door opened and Clint walked to his office. He walked in and closed the door. Turing on his computer, he sat down and began looking at the bleach shipments. He began looking at the hijacking cases filed by the police who responded to each scene.

He spent the next few hours looking through each individual case. This is a lot easier than what he was doing before. This way, he might be able to stop the attacks before they occur. Clint read through each file, writing things down, and eliminating the ones he thinks aren't relevant.

Clint soon managed to narrow the possible cases down to eight. He originally had thirty-three. Clint spent more time on that than he thought. He was a little surprised to see how often trucks get hijacked for bleach. Some people just have no self respect.

These last eight cases were giving him a serious problem. They were all unsolved and took place all over the country. Additionally, the hijackings didn't match. What was he missing? Clint sat there and stared at the computer. He was stuck and had no idea where to go from here. Then he got it. Clint looked at each of the shipping manifests. They did have one thing in common; where they came from.

Haiti.

Now Clint had something new to look into; who signed off on the shipments. He began backtracking the shipments to Haiti and discovered that the Prime Minister is responsible for signing off on the shipments. He opened the files he discovered on the Prime Minister of Haiti.

He was shocked by what he was reading. There were so many conspiracy theories revolving around the PM. Some saying that he gives aid to terrorist organizations, others saying he's been orchestrating assassination plots on high officials in the Haiti government. Clint also found a few photos of the man. One of which that really stood out to him. And it was posted less than two day ago. He had his right arm raised. There was a mark on his wrist. And there it was, the proof he's been looking for for the past five months.

Clint quickly ran out of his office and to the elevator. Fury has to know about this. He arrived on the floor and ran to the Director's office. He knocked on the window to get Fury's attention. Fury turned from looking out the window and watched Clint run into his office with a tablet.

"We got 'em", Clint said, trying to catch his breath.

"Got who?"

"Poseidon's Blood", Clint replied. He tapped something on the tablet and handed it to Fury. "I've been tracking bleach shipments that were being hijacked. Eight of the hijacked shipments came from Haiti. The Prime Minister signed off on the shipments."

"The Prime Minister?"

"Yes sir. This picture of his right wrist shows something revealing."

Fury looked at the photo closer and realized what it was. "The tattoo?" Clint nodded. "You think he can tell us something?"

"As long as you send the right person to talk to him."

Fury nodded. "Good work, Barton."

"Thank you, Sir."

Clint walked out of Fury's office to let him look at what he found. He was hoping that Fury would be quick on making the decision on talking to the PM. Once Poseidon's Blood sees the photo, they won't be happy. They will react very quick. Which means SHIELD has to be quicker.

Clint got back to his office and saw the Widow sisters sitting at his desk, talking. They both looked at him and abruptly stopped talking. Clint could tell they both were trying to hold in a laugh.

"You two okay", he asked. His eyes going between them both. They nodded. Clint noticed Natasha trying to hide a smile on her face with her hand. Then he realized what it was he interrupted. Clint turned to Yelena. "You told her about what Ms. Allice said last night, didn't you?"

Natasha burst out laughing. "Yeah", Yelena said before laughing too.

Clint rolled his eyes and shook his head. "What are you guys doing here?"

The two were finally able to calm down. More or less. "We wanted to know if you wanted to go out for a drink with us", Natasha said. "With how busy you've been, we thought you could use a break."

Clint didn't have to think about it. "I'll buy the first round."

The three agents left the building and went to a bar that was close by. They did have a few things to celebrate. Including Natasha beating Steve.

Around the third beer, Clint told them about what he found regarding Poseidon's Blood. He wasn't breaking any rules by telling them. He felt they should know. He just wanted to wait until he found something they could actually move on.

They were both relieved when he told them about Haiti. When the Widows' files appeared on Clint's desk all those months ago, the sisters haven't stopped looking over their shoulders. Not that they weren't already doing that because of how they were raised in the Red Room, but the Poseidon's Blood, it was different.

The three agents left the bar an hour later. They had to start drinking water and eat solid foods to make sure they were sober enough to get to their places. Yelena went with Natasha because she wanted to sleep in her own bed tonight. Clint wasn't offended. In fact, he wanted to have his bed to himself too. He moves around in bed a lot after he's had more than three drinks.

The enjoyment of a bed to himself and sleeping off a hangover was short lived however for Clint. Six hours into him falling asleep, he got a call from Fury. He outwardly cursed the man. Not when he was on the phone though.

It was four in the morning when Clint walked through the doors of the Triskelion. He kind of looked professional. The only thing that showed lack there of was his hair. He may have short hair but it was not combed. He made it to Fury's office and slumped down on the chair.

"What's going on, Fury?"

"It's about damn time", he said. Clint was about to come out with a snarky remark but chose to hold it in. Fury got up, pressed a button on his desk, and his office windows tented over completely. Clint knew this was about to get real. "We have a problem with what you found last night."

"What do you mean", Clint asked while rubbing his eyes. He was still only half awake.

"The Prime Minister of Haiti." Clint looked at Fury then turned to look at the screen on Fury's wall. "Going after him is going to be a challenge."

"Why", Clint asked. He began reading the information on the screen.

"Because he's an informant for SHIELD."

Clint froze. After the words registered, he slowly stood from his seat and turned to look at Fury. "He's what?"

"An informant for SHIELD." Fury could see Clint was about to complain. "I know. I was surprised when I found out."

"You didn't know?"

"No. Pierce told me."

"How could you not know? You're the Director of SHIELD."

"I may be the director, Barton, but it doesn't mean I know everything. No matter what people think."

Clint took a deep breath. He knew Fury was right. There's only so much that people can know, including Fury. "What do we do then?"

Fury sighed. "How sure are you that he's involved?"

"He has a Poseidon's Blood tattoo. I'm very sure. Why?"

"We're about to go after a man who has helped SHIELD. This goes sideways, it could spell the end for you. For me. And for anyone else who gets involved."

"I don't care who I piss off. Even if it was POTUS himself. We need that information."

"Good because I'm sending you to Haiti."

That took a minute to click in Clint's mind. "It might be the last few drinks that have yet to leave my system but did you say I'm going to Haiti?"

"I did."

Excitement bubbled in Clint's chest. As much as he's enjoyed being behind a desk, he's been itching to get back into the field. "Was I cleared for field work?"

"I don't give a shit if you were cleared or not. We need what's in his head."

Clint smiled. "Yes sir. When do I leave?"

"In an hour. So get what you need then get your ass to landing bay 3. I have a jet ready for you."

"Yes sir."

He left Fury's office and got to his own. Clint changed into his uniform which comprised of black tactical pants, boots, and a short sleeved shirt. He then put on his jacket and fingerless gloves. To put it all together, he grabbed his gun and placed it in his thigh holster. He hasn't put all this on since after Loki took control of him.

Clint walked to landing bay 3 with a black bag in his hand and his bow slung over his shoulder. He walked up the ramp of the empty jet, set his gear down, and sat down in the pilot's seat. He closed the ramp and activated the engines.

"This is gonna be fun", he said before taking off.

Chapter 12: Haiti (A Not So Magical Place)

Notes:

Hello everyone. Sorry this chapter is MUCH later than I was intending. I had a lot going on that kept me from writing. Here it is!! Please enjoy.

LOCATION: Port au Prince, Haiti
TIME: 08:35

Clint landed the cloaked jet outside the city in the mountains. He estimated he was ten or fifteen miles away from the capital city. Now he has to find out where the Prime Minister is hiding. It was most likely that he wasn't in the palace because of the photo off the insignia.

Clint changed his clothes to better blend in with the locals and made sure to cover his face except for the eyes. He began the walk to the city. There is an informant he has in the city who is close the Prime Minister but owes Clint a huge favor.

Clint got to the city and went straight to where he knew the informant liked to hang out. He found the guy walking down an alley and took his chance. Clint walked behind him, grabbed him, and slammed him against the wall.

"You remember me?" The guy, grunting in pain, nodded his head. "Good. It's time to pay up. I slipped a piece of paper into your pocket that explains what information I want you to bring me. You have two hours or I break our agreement. Understand?" The guy nodded. "Good. You know where to meet."

The guy was suddenly able to move again. He quickly spun around but didn't see anything. He grabbed out the paper and read it. He then quickly ran off.

Two Hours Later...

Clint was looking around the Square of the Unknown Marron. One of the historical landmarks in the city. He always tries to do this on missions. He wants to get a chance to explore where he's been sent. Especially if it's a place he hasn't been sent before. When he has been to the city before, like Port au Prince, he wants to see the landmarks he couldn't the first time.

"Late by two minutes", Clint said.

"Sorry", the man said. He walked up next to Clint. "What you asked for is nearly impossible; much less in the time you gave me."

"Don't worry. The two minutes won't count against you as long as you brought me what I asked for."

"I did."

"Good. Start talking."

"He's in a cabin in the mountains. East of the city. He went into hiding and no one knows why."

"I know why."

"He also has a lot of security with him. Enough to overwhelm anyone alone."

"We'll see about that."

"Does this make us even? I'm done doing this shit for you, right?"

"You're done. Just don't make anymore trouble that puts you on SHIELDs radar."

The guy couldn't leave fast enough. A small smile appeared on Clint's face at the guy's movement. Clint walked away from the statue shortly after. He walked in a different direction than his former informant of course.

Clint got back to the jet and changed back into his gear. He started the hike through the mountains to a clearing that a SHIELD satellite showed him was there. The image wasn't clear enough to show if there was a cabin.

It took him four hours from when he started the hike to find the cabin. He got to Haiti at 8:30 in the morning, walked three hours to the city, his C.I took two and a half hours, and another three hours to get back to the jet. Now, four hours later, he has the gated cabin in his sight.

"This is a damn fortress", Clint whispered to himself.

He wasn't making a joke. He was starting at a three story cabin, maybe three hundred square feet, and heavily gated. What he didn't see were the guards. Or at least conscious guards.

Clint ran to a tree that was closest to the fence. He poked his head out to take a look. There were two guards laying on the ground. There wasn't a lot of light coming from the cabin, but the amount that was, was enough for Clint to see the gun shot wounds in the guards' chests.

Clint looked up and saw two large men standing at the side entrance of the cabin. He wondered why they weren't shot until he saw their guns. Standard rifles except for the glowing light just behind the muzzle. Definitely not standard. They beat him to the Prime Minister. He knew he has to act quickly.

He grabbed the largest rock he could find and threw it. The two standing at the entrance put their guns up and carefully walked to the source of the noise. Clint grabbed out two knives and walked behind them. He knows he will lose the element of surprise when goes into the cabin but he can't lose it out in the open. The guards got to where the rock landed and looked around. They spun around as soon as they heard a stick snap but it was to late. Both guards looked down at their chests and a knife was in each. They both fell back dead.

Clint took the knifes out of them. He then made his way into the cabin. He had to be careful from here on because he didn't get a good layout of the cabin beforehand. Clint started taking out the agents. He wasn't quick enough to stop one of them from firing his gun. Now the whole cabin knows he's here. And then he heard a loud bang come from above him.

SHIT!

Clint punched the last guy out and pulled out his gun. He slowly walked to the upstairs bedroom. He turned the corner and the fire fight started. He ducked back behind the corner to avoid getting hit. Before Clint could return fire, it all stopped. He poked his head out from around the corner and didn't see anyone. He saw a broken a window instead.

He quickly turned the corner and went into the Prime Minister's bedroom but was far too late. With his gun still held in front of him, Clint was staring at the body of the Prime Minister with a bullet hole in the head. The problem was that it was a real gun, not one of Poseidon's Blood's laser rifles. Clint turned his head to look around the room.

"Fury's gonna be pissed", he muttered.

At The Triskelion...The Next Day...

Coulson walked through the halls of the SHIELD HQ to Fury's office. He's wondering why he had to be here in person if the whole purpose of the Bus is that it would be an air base. After Clint destroyed the first one. Coulson arrived at the Director's office. When he walked in, the entire mood changed and Coulson became unsettled.

"What's going on, Sir?"

Fury wasted no time. He tinted the windows and pressed a button on his desk. "Take a look."

Coulson turned and looked at the screen. He was staring at an arrest order from Haiti's President. And the face on the order is Clint Barton. He started reading the rest of the order. Wanted for killing the Prime Minister, killing a large number of other men, and illegally operating in a foreign country.

"What the hell is this?"

"The one thing that will destroy Barton's chance at finding Poseidon's Blood."

"I don't understand. What happened?"

"Two days ago, Barton discovered that the Prime Minister of Haiti is affiliated with Poseidon's Blood. Yesterday, I sent him on a mission to talk with him. As you can tell, it went very well."

"Not that Barton is incapable of killing him, we both know he is, why would he? And did he even do it?"

Fury sighed. He pressed another button on his computer and a video started playing. It was in the Prime Minister's bedroom. The guy was getting undressed when gun fire could be heard outside the door. Suddenly, the door swings open and Clint walks in. He has his gun raised and pointed at the man. "No! Please!" Coulson heard him yell Clint pulled the trigger.

"He did do it", Coulson whispered. "Why?"

"After New York, Barton has been continuing the TATP research the two of you started. A few days ago, he made a discovery that he could track bleach shipments. There were eight shipments that came from Haiti. Looking into the Prime Minister, Barton found a photo with the Poseidon's Blood insignia on his right wrist."

"And Barton went to Haiti to kill the man?"

"I sent him to Haiti to talk to him." Coulson sighed. "And now, the Haitian government is looking for an American government operative."

"They don't know he's SHIELD?"

"Not yet. Our official position is that we have no idea who he is. We have to keep it that way."

"He's been disavowed?" Fury nodded. "What is he going to do?"

"Nothing. I'm sending your team to Haiti to find him. Their president has allowed SHIELD to enter the country to find the American agent."

"Are you sure it's a good idea to send us, Director?"

"No, but it's Pierce's orders. Honestly, I would rather send the Widows."

"They would be far less noticeable than my team."

"Your team plus a strike team." Coulson quirked his brow. "Again, Pierce's orders."

"Yes Sir." Coulson walked to the door. "Have you told Romanov? She won't be happy she's not going after him."

"I'll tell her when you're gone. Can't have her sneaking on board the Bus."

"Yes Sir", Coulson said with a smile.

Coulson walked out of Fury's office and made his way to the Bus. Telling his team what the new mission is will be fun. Clint didn't exactly make a good impression when he punched their boss in front of them. And now they have to get him out of an allied country without starting an international incident, like Clint did.

He got to the landing pad and watched as a strike team was loading supplies onto the Bus. Coulson walked up the ramp just as Rumlow set a crate down on the floor. He saw his team huddled in the lab, watching the strike team work. He walked in and joined them.

"The gear is all loaded, Sir", Rumlow said.

"Alright Rumlow", Coulson replied. "May, set course for Haiti."

"Copy that", May replied. She went up the spiral staircase.

"What's going on, Boss", Skye asked as she watched the members of the strike team sit down.

"I'll brief you when we land in Haiti."

Three Hours Later...

The Bus landed on a government airstrip. The ramp lowered and Coulson walked down it to get a feel of the area. The strike team started to unload the crates they brought on board. The crates had their gear. After a minute, Coulson walked back up the ramp and went up the stairs to brief his team. He got to the next floor and saw his team gathered around the computer desk.

"You care to explain what we're doing here", May asked.

"We're looking for Agent Barton", Coulson replied. Everyone gave him a quizzical look except Ward. A detail Coulson ignored. He started typing on the desk. "Agent Barton came to Haiti to talk to a man who was supposedly affiliated with a group he's been hunting since 2010."

"What group", Jemma asked.

"Poseidon's Blood", Coulson replied. "Barton found a picture of Haiti's Prime Minister, and on his right wrist is a tattoo. The tattoo is the insignia for Poseidon's Blood."

"Okay, that explains why he's here. It doesn't explain why we're here or why there is a strike team with us", Skye said.

May saw Coulson's face saddened. "We're here because of this."

He played the video that Fury showed him. They were shocked at what they were watching. Clint walking into the Prime Minister's bedroom and shooting him.

"Barton killed the Prime Minister", May asked.

"Yes. Plus all his security", Coulson said.

"That's not good", Skye said.

"No, it's not. Fury's ordered us to find him before anyone else", Coulson said.

"What! He shoots and kills the Prime Minister and now we have to save him?" Coulson nodded. "Why? He got himself into this mess. Based on his reputation, he can get himself out."

"Calm down, Skye. To answer your question, he won't leave the country willingly. That means we have to take him back to the Triskelion."

"What do you mean he won't go willingly", Fitz asked.

"Barton has been hunting this group longer than anyone else at SHIELD. Being this close to a breakthrough is an accomplishment for him. Believe me."

"That answers most questions", Jemma said. "But why is the strike team here?"

"Have you ever met Barton", May asked.

"I have. I was impressed with what I saw", Jemma said with a little smile. Skye and Ward widened their eyes slightly while Fitz just looked at her.

"Have you seen him fight", May asked. "He doesn't go down easily."

"Like they can do anything about it", Coulson whispered.

"What", Skye asked.

"Nothing. Since we don't know where Barton is, we have to monitor cameras around the city to find him. So everyone take a tablet or computer and start watching."

"Copy that, AC", Skye said.

May walked over to Coulson after everyone dispersed. "You know looking for Barton on security cameras is pointless. He knows to avoid them because he's being hunted."

"I know", Coulson sighed. "But he killed a member of the Haitian government. An ally to the U.S. The fact that we've been allowed to find him is a miracle. We have to get to him before anyone else."

May nodded and walked away.

Two Hours Later...

Coulson's team was still staring at the tablets and computers. Most of the team had moved to the living area to be more comfortable. Ward stayed in the lab. Coulson was in his office debriefing Fury on the situation.

Ward stared blankly at the screen. Like the rest of his team, he was looking at eight different cameras around the city.

"Find anything yet", Rumlow asked. "The team is getting restless."

"Not yet."

"Fury didn't say why we were told to be here. Do you have any idea?"

"I know exactly why you're here, and it's not why Coulson believes you're here."

"Then what is it?"

"He said so." Rumlow didn't respond. "Barton is a threat and must be taken care of."

"And what does that entail?"

"We corner him. He doesn't come peacefully, we neutralize him."

"He's on the list", Rumlow said as more of a realization than a question.

"According to the algorithm and Pierce. Pierce says that Barton is a major threat to the plan."

"Weird, I would've bet that Captain Rogers is the major threat."

Ward laughed. "Me too. Pierce wouldn't share any details, just that Barton has to die." Ward looked down at the screen. "And there he is."

"Where?"

"Loading dock in the business district."

"Good. Strike team, suit up", Rumlow ordered. The team started grabbing their gear. "Do we tell Coulson?"

"No. We'll say we had no time to tell them." Rumlow nodded to Ward.

The strike team and Ward left in the SUVs that took the places of the other two vehicles Coulson's team normally travels with. They drove through the city and went to the last location Clint was seen on camera. Arriving at the dock, one SUV turned left and the other continued straight.

Clint turned the corner of the shipping container. He turned around to look behind him. No one was coming which helped him. He walked a little further into the open and scanned the area. Then he heard the squealing of tires. He knew they would come. Clint walked further into the sea of shipping containers. He got to the clearing in the containers.

"Agent Barton", yelled an all too familiar voice. "Put your hands up!"

Clint slowly raised his hands. "Hey Rumlow", he said, turning his head. The rest of the strike team surrounded him by making a circle. "Wow. You brought the whole gang."

"Shut it, Barton", Rumlow yelled.

Ward walked out from behind one of the containers. "That's quite a predicament you got yourself in, Barton."

Clint smirked. "Thanks Captain Obvious. Any chance you brought your gang with you?"

"They're in the city."

"Ward, what the hell are you doing", Coulson's voice rang out over everyone's radio.

"I'm following orders, Coulson."

"Who's orders", Coulson asked. He and the others were gathered around the computer desk.

"Pierce's orders."

Coulson rubbed his eyes. "I'm getting tired of hearing that. You're going to follow Fury's orders, Ward. We need to bring him in alive."

"That's up to him, Coulson. I will drop him if need be."

"Can I say something now Ward or am I still in the shut up corner", Clint asked.

"What?"

"You don't want to kill me. The repercussions won't be good."

Ward smiled. "I don't care about Poseidon's Blood or your fight with them. I was told to find you and bring you in. Kill you if you do anything stupid."

Clint started chuckling. "Then you should've shot me already."

"What the hell does that mean", Rumlow asked. The grip on his gun getting tighter.

"What's that", Fitz asked.

"What's what", Skye asked.

"The blinking light on Barton's wrist", Fitz said. The team was using the cameras on the strike team helmets to watch what was happening. "What does it mean?"

"I have no idea", Coulson said. "May?"

"No idea, Coulson."

"Agent Barton, either drop to your knees or we will open fire", Rumlow yelled.

Clint started chuckling again. "Both options stink. So, I apologize for what's about to happen."

"What are you...", before Ward could finish his question, he felt a surge of electricity go through him. Then he couldn't feel a thing.

Four arrows on four containers in four corners were zapping the agents surrounding Clint with electricity. All the agents were shaking from the current flowing through them. The team on the Bus lost all contact with Ward and the strike team. Thirty seconds after they were hit with the electrical current, they all fell to the ground; unable to move.

Clint walked over to Ward's motionless body and crouched down. "Don't worry, the paralysis will ware off after thirty minutes." Ward tried to talk but couldn't. "When you get back to the Bus, don't tell Coulson you had to move quick. He'll know its shit." He patted Ward's shoulder and walked away.

Clint got back to the car he "borrowed" earlier in the day and drove back to the main city. He knew he definitely pissed everyone off now, but he didn't care to much about it. He was so close to finding what he needed to find where the bleach is coming from. Clint couldn't afford anyone getting in his way. Not even Coulson or SHIELD.

Ward and the strike team drove to the bottom of the ramp of the Bus. They didn't drive up it because a very angry Coulson was blocking their path. Each member of the team got out and walked passed Coulson and passed the rest of the team. Ward stepped in front of Coulson.

"What the hell was that", Coulson asked.

"Look Coulson, I know I shouldn't have done that but we had to hurry."

"Hurry? You went against an agent of SHIELD that knows how every strike team operates. He knew we were following him", Coulson yelled. The others were watching the two agents. Coulson's tone obviously attracting their attention. "Clint Barton is not one to go against unless you've planned ahead of time."

"You're saying you would have left him alone rather go after him?"

"Of course not, Ward! But I'm not stupid enough to go after someone like him without having a plan. You fell right into his hands. He just became harder to catch now because he knows SHIELD is looking for him." Coulson turned and walked up the ramp. He ignored the protests coming from Ward. When he got to the top, he turned to May. "Fury should've ignored Pierce's damn orders and sent the Widows." He walked to the spiral staircase and walked up.

"Why is he acting like this", Skye asked May. "I've never seen him like this."

May watched Ward walk up the ramp and join them before answering. "Coulson and Barton have a... A unique friendship."

"One that involves punching", Fitz asked.

"Coulson had it coming", May said with a smirk. "Coulson is the reason Barton is at SHIELD in the first place. He's been Barton's handler for most of his field ops. That kind of partnership requires a great amount of trust. Barton may have stopped trusting Coulson and I, but he still feels responsible for Barton. Hell, even I feel responsible for him too."

"Why", Ward asked.

"Because she trained him", Jemma said. Everyone turned to her in surprise. Even May. She hasn't told anyone she trained Clint. "What? Agent Belova told me that you trained him."

May smirked. "I did train him, and like Belova, he has a telling past. One that prepared him for this job better than anyone could."

"What kind of past", Skye asked.

May avoided eye contact with the group. "One that isn't mine to tell. And don't go snooping around for it. Personnel files, especially those for the Avengers, are Level 7 and above."

May walked away from them while they tried to understand what she said. Ward and the strike team were stripping out of their gear to begin icing their bodies. The initial paralysis from Clint's arrows may be thirty minutes but they could still feel it.

Everyone began doing their own thing. Ward was cleaning his rifle, May was going over something with Coulson, and Fitz and Simmons were in the lab working on new weapons to use in the field. Skye was in her bunk looking at security footage from the loading dock. She was trying to map Clint's movements after he took out the strike team and Ward.

Finding him was proving harder than she first thought. Coulson was right; Barton is not one to easily be found unless they planned ahead of him. After a long chat with Coulson, she was allowed to go to a cafe a few miles away from the airfield. She needs a break from the Bus.

Upon arriving, she ordered a coffee, black, and a blueberry muffin. She sat down at one of the tables outside and began looking through the security footage. A part of Skye knew this was useless because she was dealing with one of the most esteemed agents in SHIELD history. He knows to avoid cameras and large crowded areas. Or maybe it was small large areas with little to no people. She couldn't remember which one.

Skye received her order and was still deep in her search. She was so concentrated on the computer that she didn't notice the chair across from her move. She instantly jumped when she heard a familiar voice.

"Don't be alarmed", Clint said.

Skye stared at him. He could see some fear in her eyes. "What are you doing here?"

Clint smiled at her. "What do you think? I heard this place has great scones."

That seemed to lighten the mood because Skye smiled. "What are you really doing here, Agent Barton?"

"I'm here to talk to you."

"About?"

Clint placed his hand on the table. "Actually, I have somewhere to be."

Skye quirked her brow. She looked down at her computer for a second then back up to see Clint gone. She turned her head to not see him anywhere. "I have to learn how to do that", she whispered.

She noticed a jump drive on the table that wasn't there before Clint arrived. A big part of her didn't like him for hitting Coulson but she was becoming more and more impressed at his quick thinking and slight of hand.

Skye plugged the jump drive into the computer and tapped a few keys. She was shocked at what she was seeing. Quickly closing the computer, she ran back to the Bus. Coulson and the team had to see what was on the drive and quick. Their mission was soon going to change to an infiltration and extraction.

She soon got to the Bus and ran up the ramp. The was probably the most she's run; even after joining SHIELD. The team being at the computer desk saved her time from having to gather them.

"You guys have to see this", she said out of breath.

"Jeez Skye, did you run here", May asked. Skye nodded, trying to catch her breath. "I'm impressed."

They all waited for her to calm down and catch her breath. "Agent Barton found me at the cafe", Skye finally managed to say. "He gave me this", she said, lifting the drive in her hand.

"Are you okay", Ward asked.

Skye looked at him. "I'm fine. He didn't hurt me."

"What's on the drive", Coulson asked.

Skye plugged it into the computer. "The truth." She tapped a few buttons and a video appeared on screen.

The team watched the Prime Minister enter his bedroom and close the door behind him. He started stripping out of his clothes. He was in a suit so his tie and suit jacket were first to come off. He was unbuttoning his shirt when gunfire broke out. He looked at his door. He walked over to the door and knocked on it; asking the guard on the opposite of the door what was happening.

Before the guard could reply, there was one more loud bang. Then it was quiet. The Prime Minister started backing away from the door when something hit it. Presumably the body of the guard. The doors suddenly swung open and in walked two heavily armed tactical agents.

"What the hell are you doing here", the Prime Minister asked.

"You broke the terms of our agreement. The boss is not happy", one of the agents said.

"What terms did I break?"

"You revealed us to the world", the other agent said. "The photo you posted revealed our insignia."

"Now the boss must make sure you don't do it again", the agent who spoke first said.

"I swear, it won't happen again."

"You're right, it won't." The agent pulled out his pistol. Before he pulled the trigger, gunfire rang out. "What is going on?"

The other agent put his finger against his ear. "There's an intruder breaking through our defenses. It's a SHIELD agent."

"Probably Clint Barton since he came alone. You see what you've done."

"I'm sorry."

The agent sighed. "It's a shame. I was starting to like you."

"No! Please", the Prime Minister yelled but it was to late. The agent pulled the trigger and the Prime Minister fell back dead.

The agent holstered his weapon and turned his head to the other agent. "We have to leave now. We get caught, the boss will have our heads. Much like those two idiots that talked."

"Yes Sir." The agent placed his finger on his ear again. "All agents evacuate. I repeat, all agents evacuate."

The two agents left the room and it became silent. The silence lasted only a minute because Clint then entered the room. His gun in hand, raised, and ready to fire.

"Fury is gonna be pissed", they heard Clint say.

Clint holstered his weapon and looked around. He noticed something odd on the drawer. On the video, Clint was getting bigger which meant he found the camera. They watched him examine the camera, reach under the drawer, then the screen went dark.

The team stared at the black screen.

"So SHIELD had it wrong", Jemma said. Everyone nodded.

"Poseidon's Blood framed him", Coulson said.

"If I wanted to get rid of an enemy I knew wouldn't die easily, that's exactly what I would do", Skye said.

"Now what do we do", Ward asked.

"Go to those coordinates", May said. Everyone looked to the screen to see numbers followed by the message 'Bring the scientists'.

"Where is that", Fitz asked.

Skye put the coordinates into the computer. "It's an old power plant that was shut down two years ago."

"Did you say two years ago", Coulson asked.

"Yeah. Why?"

"Two years ago is when the traitorous Prime Minister took power. He must've been ordered by Poseidon's Blood to shut it down."

"For what reason", Ward asked. "To make a base?"

"Not a base. A factory", Coulson said. "More specifically, a bomb factory."

"A bomb factory", Jemma asked.

"Yes. That's what brought Barton here in the first place. He was tracking bleach shipments that came from Haiti."

"Bleach? How is bleach an explosive", Skye asked.

"Acetone Peroxide", Fitz said. "Is it TATP?"

"That's exactly what it is", Coulson said.

"It makes sense why he wants the two of them to be at the factory", May said.

"Speaking of which, I'll get the strike team ready", Ward said.

"No", Coulson said looking at his phone. "They have a new mission. Our team will meet up with Barton." Coulson walked away from the group.

"You heard the man", May said. "Gear up."

Coulson walked down the stairs to the strike team. Rumlow met him half way. "Fury has new orders for you. Find the quinjet that Barton used to get here. The organization that framed him might be looking for it."

"They have a day heads start", Rumlow replied.

"Yes, but you will know where to go." Coulson handed Rumlow a tablet that showed a red dot in the mountainous area outside the capital. "Take your team and find the jet. Once found, take it back to D.C."

"Understood, Sir."

The mountains where the quinjet was located, wasn't far from the Bus so the strike team decided to hike to it. Stretch their muscles after Clint paralyzed them. Taking the advantage, Coulson's team took the two SUVs to the location Clint gave them.

The drive was longer than expected. Mostly due to the busy city, but also because the power plant is on the opposite side of the city from the airfield. They drove up the main road to the plant and stopped when they saw a car that had pulled off to the side. Pulling off to the side, next to the car, the team got out of the vehicles and saw Clint standing on the edge of a hill. He didn't turn to look at them.

Coulson walked forward and stood next to Clint. "What are you hoping to find in there?"

"Answers", Clint said. "And it's not a garage so maybe we'll find more information."

Coulson smiled. "What do you need from us?"

Clint turned to look at the group. "Do you remember Bosnia?"

Coulson turned to look at the team. "Oh yeah." They both laid their eyes on May. She traded glances with the two. "She's gonna kill us."

"Yep. Don't sneeze."

"What the hell are you two looking at", May asked, crossing her arms. Both men smiled at her.

"This plan is stupid", May said after ten minutes of getting ready.

May was walking down the hill. Ward had a hold of her left arm and Coulson held her right. All three of them were wearing face coverings and cloaks over their gear.

"I have to agree with May on this one", Ward said.

"Yeah, how do you know this is going to work", Skye asked. She, Fitz, and Jemma, were on the top of the hill with Clint. They were watching the three agents walk toward the power plant. "Have you done this before?"

"We have actually", Clint replied with a smile. "Coulson and I did it with Romanov in Bosnia."

"Did it work", May asked.

"For the most part", Clint replied. "Then Coulson sneezed and ruined the whole mission."

"Romanov almost murdered me when we got away", Coulson said.

"Nice work, Boss", Skye said with a small laugh.

"Thanks, I was proud too", Coulson said. "Barton, get ready."

"Copy." Clint unzipped the black tactical bag he had next to him. Skye, Fitz, and Jemma watched with suspicion. He pulled out something that resembled a children's bow. He pressed a button on the bow and it extended into a bigger bow. Clint grabbed an arrow out of the bag. "Ready."

Skye walked next to Clint. "When we're done here, you have to show me how that works."

Clint smirked and pulled back on the string. "Coulson, Ward, drop when I say."

Neither of the men could reply because they had already gotten to the guards standing in front of an entrance to the power plant. The four on the hill started hearing arguing over their comms.

"Drop", Clint said just as he let the arrow go.

Halfway to the target, the arrow broke into two and was getting further and further apart. Coulson and Ward dropped down just in time for the two guards to be struck by the arrows. The two guards fell to the ground. May was still standing straight up looking at the two dead bodies.

Coulson and Ward stood up to look at the guards, each with an arrow in his chest. A few minutes later, the four on the hill joined the three at the entrance. While, May, Coulson, and Ward removed their cloaks and face coverings, Clint examined the two dead bodies.

"What is he looking for", Skye whispered to Jemma.

"This", Clint said. Everyone looked at him. He was holding up the right arm of one of the guards. There was a mark on his wrist.

"The Poseidon's Blood insignia", Coulson said.

Clint nodded. "Whoever framed me is here. I'm hoping this place will give me information."

"What do we do now", Fitz asked.

"We're going to blow it to hell", Clint said with a chuckle.

"Okay. What do you want us to do", Ward asked.

"Coulson and Skye will take Fitzsimmons to the generator room on the south side of the plant. There, you should have all the resources needed to make an explosive powerful enough to destroy the whole plant. May and Ward will take down the perimeter guards and the freelancers."

"And what will you do", Coulson asked.

"I'm going to the control room."

"Are you sure it's a good idea to go alone", May asked.

Clint smiled. "Come on, Mel. It's me."

May smirked and shook her head.

Skye laughed. "Mel? Why does he call you Mel?"

"None of your business", Clint and May said simultaneously.

The team started moving through the plant. Ward and May began taking out the perimeter guards. Coulson, Skye, Fitz, and Jemma went to the south side of the plant toward the generator room. Clint went to the main building of the plant.

Coulson turned the corner and iced the guard in front of the door to the generator room. Fitz and Jemma followed Coulson. Skye was right behind them, covering their backs. Coulson slowly opened the door and entered the room. No one was standing on the inside of the room. Fitz and Jemma quickly started getting the explosive ready. The chemicals they needed were in a closet in the room. Skye stayed by the door to make sure there weren't any surprises.

Clint carefully walked down the dimly lit hallway. The only sound being made was coming from Clint's boots against the concrete. He had his gun out in front of him and his finger hovering over the trigger. He was shocked there weren't more Blood agents around.

Getting closer to the control room, Clint heard the distinct sound of chatter. He peered over the corner and saw three agents, armed to the teeth, standing at the door. He had to act quick if he was going to get the information he wanted. Clint looked up and saw the pipes that lined the ceiling of the hallway. He watched the guards and waited for them to not be looking in his direction.

Once he saw his opening, Clint aimed the gun and fired at the pipes. With a loud pop, hot steam poured onto the three guards causing them to scream. Clint ran at them. He punched one guy in the chest then kicked him in the knee cap. He spun around to hit the guy coming up from behind him. The hit disoriented him.

The third man grabbed out his knife to attack, but Clint was fast. He dodged the hit and grabbed the man's arm, kicked his leg out from under him, and snapped his arm. Clint threw him against the wall and knocked him out.

The other two men, finally collecting themselves, got ready to attack. Clint heard their movements. He grabbed the knife from the knocked out agent and threw it at the guard running at him. The guy who had a busted knee cap grabbed out his gun. Clint quickly grabbed the gun, grabbed the back of his head, and brought it to meet Clint's knee. He fell back against the wall, knocked out.

The door to the control room started to open. Clint quickly grabbed a flash bang and threw it into the open room. Knowing it went off, he grabbed the door to slam it against the guy who opened it. Clint ran in, grabbed his gun, and shot the agents in the room. One by one, each agent dropped dead with a single bullet in the forehead.

Clint walked to the control computer and started typing. His eyes widened at the world of information he was looking at. He grabbed a jump drive from his pocket and plugged it into the computer. It started downloading the information. Then Clint heard movement. The guard Clint hit with the door quickly got up and grabbed his gun.

"I was hoping we could meet one day", he said.

Clint instantly recognized the guy as the one who shot the Prime Minister. "Me too. I never got to thank you for framing me."

"You're very welcome, Agent Barton. My boss will give me a huge promotion if I kill you."

"And this is how you want to kill me? With a gun? I'd think your boss would give you more praise if you killed me hand to hand. I know I would."

"Yes. Yes, she would."

"She?"

The agent's eyes widened. Clint quickly moved to grab his gun. The guy fired and missed. Clint fired at his leg and the guy dropped his gun. Clint ran and kneed him in the face. "Thank you for your cooperation."

Clint walked back to the computers and saw the download was 43% complete. Clint sighed as he placed his hands on the computer. Now that he knows the boss is a woman, he knows exactly who has been doing this. The SHIELD infiltrator, the files of GHOST and SHADOW, and the TATP. All the pieces were lining up.

He heard Coulson's voice over the comms. He was saying that the explosive was set and ready. Then May's voice was heard saying that they have a clearing to leave. Clint looked over at the download, 79%. He wasn't ready to leave. Not yet.

"Everyone get out of here", Clint said. Knowing Coulson would argue, Clint took the comm out of his ear.

"Barton, come in! Barton", Coulson yelled. "Dammit!"

Skye was taken aback by Coulson's cursing. "What happened?"

"He removed his comm", Coulson replied. "You three meet up with Ward and May. I'm going after Barton."

The four of them walked out of the room to see agents start firing at them. Skye moved to the left while the other three went right. Skye noticed the bullets were breaking through the concrete covering them.

"What kind of guns are those", Skye yelled.

"Advanced assault rifles", Coulson replied. He fired the icer at them, knocking one down. "I have to get Barton. You three leave."

"Not a good idea, Coulson. I'm on the side that leads to the control room. You take Fitzsimmons out. I'll get Barton."

"How do you expect to leave?"

"I'm sure Hawkeye has a plan for that."

Before Coulson could reply, Skye took off running to the control room. Coulson rolled his eyes and motioned for Fitz and Jemma to get to the door. The Poseidon's Blood agents split up. One after Skye, the others after Coulson.

Skye was far less careful running down the halls than Clint had been. She got to the door and noticed the three guards on the floor. One of them had a pool of blood forming around him.

"Damn Barton", she whispered. She opened the door and saw the other dead agents in the room. She also saw Clint standing at the computer. "Hey dumbass, what are you doing?"

Clint smiled. "What are you doing here? I told you to leave."

"I'm here because Coulson won't leave you behind", Skye said. She walked over to Clint. "He won't blow the explosive till we are all clear."

The download was 99%. Clint was about to speak when he heard the sound of boots against concrete. He turned his head and saw the guy that followed Skye stop and aim his gun. "Get down", he yelled. He grabbed Skye and pulled her around so he was covering her when the agent fired.

Clint felt the laser burn through his skin. He grabbed the icer from Skye's hand, spun around, and fired at the guy before he could react. The guy fell back after Clint fired four shots.

Clint lowered his arm that was holding the icer. His other arm was still partially holding onto Skye. She looked at him still in shock. He started groaning in pain as the fresh wound made itself known. The hand that was on Skye's hip was now on the wound. The laser blast only skimmed him but it burned.

A beeping from the computer made them both turn. The download was at 100%. The two looked at each other then Skye grabbed it. They both started running to the exit.

"Coulson, get ready to blow it", Clint yelled. "We're on our way out."

"Copy that", Coulson said. He was standing a few meters away from the entrance Clint entered.

Coulson saw the two run out of the entrance. His finger hovered over the button. He started running when they had got to him. Clint nodded to him and he pressed the button.

BOOM

The south side of the plant went up in flames and smoke. The rest of the plant soon followed. The blast wave was powerful enough to knock the three to the ground. The other four were on the hill, watching the explosion.

LOCATION: Somewhere Over the North Atlantic Ocean
TIME: 18:47

Clint was sitting at the bar on the Bus. He was currently on his third whiskey. Or fourth. He lost count because his mind kept going to the drive in his hand. He was also thinking about what the agent at the plant had said. If the boss of Poseidon's Blood is a woman, and he was right about who it is, then he is now more worried than he had ever been before.

"Mind if I join you", Clint heard Coulson ask.

"Go ahead."

Coulson sat next to him and grabbed a glass. Without asking, Clint filled Coulson's glass with whiskey. He took a sip. "Smooth. Thank you."

"Nature's remedy after nearly getting blown up", Clint said before taking another sip.

Coulson smirked. "I don't think that's true."

Clint laughed. "Probably not, but now is not the time to use the brain."

Coulson laughed. "I can drink to that."

The two drank in silence for a few minutes. They just enjoyed their drinks.

"Thank you", Clint muttered.

"You're welcome", Coulson replied. "For what?"

"Getting me out of there. Honestly, I didn't think you'd come."

"Come on Clint. You know you don't have to thank me for that. It doesn't matter what's happening between us, I will always come save you."

Clint laughed. "Payback for all the times I saved you?"

"Yes and no."

They both started laughing. "Seriously Coulson, thank you. I would not have been able to do it alone."

"Yes you would have, but I know why you didn't. I don't blame you for waiting for backup. Even if it's the kind you weren't expecting."

"And now we've got a treasure trove of information", Clint said holding up the drive.

"Skye said she saw some of the information you were downloading. Based on what she said, it sounds like you found everything you wanted."

Clint finished what was in his glass and put it back on the bar. "I found out something else too."

"What?"

"The leader of Blood. It's a woman."

"A woman?"

"Yeah. I know I denied it in the past but I think you were right. We're looking for her. We're looking for Valentina."

Coulson sighed and drank what was left in the glass. "Damn. I was really hoping I was wrong when I said that."

Clint smiled. "Yeah, well. What are you going to do about it?"

"Find her and put her away", Coulson said.

Clint started laughing. "Do you remember Djibouti?"

"Which time? The time where we got stuck in the desert for three days or the time we got abducted by rebels?"

"The desert. That mission proved how much we trusted each other."

"Yep." Coulson turned his head to look at Clint. "Why are you remembering Djibouti? I thought we agreed to never speak of that again."

"That was Belarus. Also I'm a little drunk." Both men started laughed.

As time went by, the two "professional" agents continued to talk about a lot of their old missions. They both had enough drinks that they had actually started singing. The small crowd of four they gathered couldn't figure out what they were singing. The two were mumbling, at different points in the song, and using different pitches. The singing was terrible but entertaining.

The Bus arrived at the Triskelion an hour later. Coulson, though drunk, had the SUVs taken out of the Bus and the two cars put back. Fury and Natasha were at the bottom of the ramp soon after. Yelena joined them as soon as she heard the Bus was back. Clint was on the Bus, carefully packing up his gear. He was a little too drunk to be doing things at a normal speed.

"You and Coulson make up", May asked.

"Not yet", he said taking another sip from his water bottle. "More like 'working on a way to wipe the slate clean'. I'm not sure if making up is possible."

"He seems to think so."

Clint smiled softly. "My therapist said that it could be possible. It's just going to take time."

"You see a therapist?"

"SHIELD mandated but yes."

"Let me rephrase. You actually talk?"

"I just started talking. Then I went to Haiti."

May walked with Clint down the staircase. Everyone else was already down there. They were talking and laughing in front of the lab. Clint smiled and nodded to them and walked to the ramp. May stayed with the others. Clint stopped at the top of ramp when Coulson walked up. The two shook hands before Clint walked down the ramp.

Clint stood in front of Fury. Natasha and Yelena were standing a few feet behind their director. May walked next to Coulson, who was watching Clint talk to Fury. They watched him walk past Fury and go to the Widows.

He instantly reciprocated the hug from Natasha. Then the hug from Yelena. When the three started walking, Clint stumbled a bit giving Natasha a good laugh. They grabbed either arm, Yelena careful not to touch Clint's wound, and guided him.

A small smile appeared on May's face when she saw Yelena and Clint's fingers intertwine. She knew there was something going on between them. She seemed to be the only one who noticed.

One hour had passed and Clint was alone in his office. Four bottles of water on his desk next to a bag of chips that Yelena had brought him. He was not sober enough to drive home so Yelena will be doing it. And it wasn't a problem because she was planning on spending the night anyway.

There was a knocking on the door. He thought it was Natasha or Yelena but instead it was Skye who walked into his office.

"Hey Skye. What are you doing here?"

"I wanted to ask you a question?"

"Okay, go ahead." Clint took a seat on the couch.

"Why did you save me?"

Clint quirked his brow. "What?"

"Why did you save me? You don't like me."

Clint sighed. "Coulson told you about that?"

Skye nodded. "I want you to know I'm not a member of the Rising Tide anymore. But I want to know why you saved me if you don't like me."

"I saved you because anyone that Phil Coulson will vouch for deserves a chance."

Skye smiled. "You're willing to give me a chance?"

"Yes, but only one. Trust is a delicate subject with me. As I'm sure you know."

Skye nodded. "Coulson asked me about Poseidon's Blood when he first recruited me. I don't know who they are and I had no idea Rising Tide was helping."

Clint nodded. "Okay. I guess that's a good start."

"I also want to help."

"Help?"

"Yeah. I want to help you take down Blood. Coulson said you're in charge of all operations concerning them. I want to help you."

Clint thought for a second. "If Coulson's okay with it, I could use the help."

Skye smiled. "Thank you, Agent Barton."

Clint smiled. "Call me Clint. Agent Barton is too formal."

"Okay. Thank you, Clint."

Clint nodded to the young woman.

Skye walked out of his office and went back to the Bus. Clint walked to his desk and slumped down in his chair. He picked up the drive and stared at it. He wanted to plug it in but his mind kept going to the agent in the plant. The part of his mind that wasn't asleep.

He couldn't believe that Valentina may be the one who has been leading Poseidon's Blood. Yet, at the same time, he can believe she's the leader. Knowing Valentina, Clint knew that she doesn't stand around and wait. She's going to retaliate and he has to figure out how and when.

Notes:

I have been thinking about changing the title. If anyone has ideas, please put them in the comments.

Chapter 13: Stones and Artifacts

Four Months Later...

Clint stared at the contents of the container.

He was back in the storage room in the basement of the Triskelion. His nightmares have only gotten worse and so has the illusion of the Ghost. When he wasn't talking, he would just stand there. Be present wherever Clint is standing.

Clint reached into the container and pulled out the hilt. He pressed a button and watched the blade extend from the hilt. His eyes moved up and down the blade. There were small spots of dried blood at varying points.

Setting aside the sword, he reached into the container and pulled out the mask. The damn mask that he hated looking at every time his illusion would come out to play. Clint clutched the mask in his hand and saw it wrinkle. He watched his knuckles become white.

"Self destructing again", a female voice asked.

Clint's hold on the mask loosened. "Didn't think anyone else was down here."

"I was grabbing something from cold storage when I saw you sitting there looking through...that."

"With everything that has been happening, why am I surprised he would come back."

Footsteps got closer. "If you're that haunted by the suit, then get rid of it."

Clint smirked. "Thanks Hill, but you know I can't. Not yet."

"What are you expecting to do with it?"

"I have no idea. I just know I can't get rid of it."

Clint put the mask back into the container. He grabbed the sword, pressed the button, and it retracted back into the hilt. He placed the hilt on the suit in the container and placed it back on the shelf.

"Do you need help getting the rest of your stuff to the jet", Clint asked.

"I could use the help with the last few boxes."

Clint followed Hill to her old office. Old being the key word because Fury reassigned Hill to a field office in an undisclosed location.

The two agents arrived at her office and Clint lifted the last of the boxes on her floor. He followed Hill to the quinjet and placed the boxes on the floor. He hugged the woman and walked off the jet. He heard the engines roar to life and watched it take off.

When the jet was out of sight, Clint walked back inside and went to his own office. His mind was going to different things that happened during the last four months.

He and Coulson had been getting on better ground since Haiti. They've been trying to work out their issues but it was going to be tough. Clint made it known to Coulson that they may not be able to go back to where they were but they can start fresh. He knew he hurt Coulson when he said that, but it had to be said.

The search for Poseidon's Blood was rough. After Clint took down the old power plant, with the help of Coulson's team, they became silent. No attacks. No threats. Not even a retaliation for Haiti. And Clint was becoming a little skittish. Their silence can not mean anything good.

Clint sat down at his desk and looked at all the paperwork covering it. He and Skye had been pretty busy going through all the information on the jump drive he got from Haiti. Then Skye started looking at SHIELD files she didn't have the clearance to look at. Clint wasn't surprised if he is being honest.

A part of the stacks of paper were the reports about what happened with Stark and the Mandarin and Thor in Greenwich. And Fury made him be the one to fill out the reports. Normally, unless SHIELD was involved, no report would be needed. Since both Stark and Thor are Avengers, Fury and SHIELD are indirectly responsible for them.

"Are you busy", came a lovely and familiar voice.

Clint looked up and smiled. "Nope."

Yelena walked into his office and sat down across from him. He knew she was being professional because she would've sat in his lap and kissed him. "Fury just gave me a new mission...with Coulson and his team." Clint stayed silent. "And I wanted to make sure you're okay with it."

He was not expecting that. Had he really been angry and upset enough with Coulson that he gave Yelena the impression that she had to check in with him first? Certainly not his intent. He did appreciate that she would tell him though.

Clint smiled at her. "It's fine. Coulson and I are on better ground. Not perfect but better. Besides, you need to practice working with a team."

Yelena became offended. And she definitely looked it. She crossed her arms over her chest. "I do not need to practice working with a team. I led my own team in the Red Room."

Clint laughed lightly. "I know, but working on a team for SHIELD is different. More so with Coulson. He doesn't do orders all the time. He occasionally runs a democracy. That's how I got away with as much as I did."

Yelena smiled. "I just wanted to make sure you're fine."

"I'm fine, Lena. Really, I am, but it would not have mattered anyway. Fury ordered you to go with them. And May will be there so you won't be completely uncomfortable."

Yelena smiled at him. He really did know her well. With anyone else, she wouldn't feel okay with someone knowing so much about her. Clint was different. Of course Natasha was the only other person she accepted knowing so much.

"I should get to the Bus. We are leaving soon", Yelena said checking her watch.

The two stood up. Clint walked around the desk and kissed Yelena. Their lips lingered a moment before Clint pulled away. Yelena pouted slightly at him. "I will see you when you get back."

Yelena smiled and nodded. She stole one quick kiss from him before walking out.

Clint sat back down at his desk and started examining the paper work. He's hoping somewhere in all of it, has to be something that shows where Valentina is hiding. Or at least where another base could be located.

Yelena walked up the ramp of the Bus. She was instantly greeted met with arguing coming from the lab. She smiled when saw it was Jemma and Fitz. Shortly after Clint got back from Haiti, he introduced her to the team that she didn't already know.

Yelena saw May walk down the spiral staircase and smile at Yelena. "There's my favorite cadet."

Yelena smiled at the older woman. "I'm your favorite cadet?"

"Yes you are", May said. "Don't tell Barton."

"Yes ma'am", she said with a smirk. She missed being ordered around by May.

"Come on up", May said. She started walking up the stair case. Yelena followed. "Ignore the yelling coming from the lab. You learn to get used to it."

"Do they do that often?"

"No. They agree on most things but when they get into it, they really get into it."

Yelena nodded. "Where's the rest of the team?"

"Up here talking about the mission."

The two female agents walked into the next level of the Bus. Yelena was slightly shocked at it. Clint was right when he told her the Bus was big. She looked around at the comfortable living space. Nice couches and chairs. A flat screen TV on the wall. A glass window with the SHIELD logo. And in the middle is their little command center with the computer desk. She is impressed.

"I'm trying to convince Fury to let us get a fish tank", Coulson said.

Yelena turned to look at him. "A fish tank would really tie it all together."

"Glad you could join us, Agent Belova", Coulson said. "I promise it will be worth your while."

Yelena smiled at the man. "Fury and Clint think I need teamwork practice and Natasha said it would be good for me to see how SHIELD operates with an 0-8-4."

"We've heard worse excuses", May said.

"What's the 0-8-4", Yelena asked.

"Let me show you. May, set course for the Sierra Madrona." May nodded and went back to the stairs. "Follow me." Yelena followed Coulson to the computer desk and joined Ward and Skye. "We are going to Spain to get an 0-8-4 that locals call the Healer."

"Locals? Isn't the Sierra Madrona a part of a mountain range?"

"It is", Skye replied. "The locals are a small group of people in the village in the mountains."

"They protect the 0-8-4", Ward said.

"How much resistance do you expect?"

"We don't know", Coulson replied. "We don't even know how many people are actually in the village."

"Fun", Yelena said quietly. "What about the 0-8-4? Why is it called the Healer?" Everyone stayed silent. "Let me guess, you don't know?" Skye nodded. "Of course not. Where did you get the information you do have?"

"From a government aide we are meeting when we land."

Yelena shook her head. Something about this didn't feel right.

LOCATION: Somewhere in the Sierra Madrona Mountains
TIME: 20:19

"We're gonna have to start our drive tomorrow", Coulson said. "Everyone get sufficient sleep. Yelena, we have a guest bed for you."

"Thank you", Yelena said to the older agent.

Everyone went to the next level of the Bus except May and Yelena. May was checking a few of the supplies around the main cabin. May looked over at Yelena, who was sitting at the table on her phone, and saw a small smile on her face. She grabbed a water bottle from the mini fridge behind the bar and walked over to her.

"How long have you and Barton been dating?"

Yelena's head shot up at the words. She looked right at her former instructor. "What?"

May sat down and unscrewed the bottle cap. "How long have you and Barton been seeing each other?"

"I don't know what you're talking about, May."

"Don't bullshit me, Belova. I saw the smile on your face when looking at your phone."

"I was talking to Natasha", Yelena lied. "She said something funny."

May rolled her eyes. "Do you honestly think I believe that?" Yelena didn't reply. "When we got back from Haiti, I saw the two of you holding hands. I've been watching you two ever since. Now, are you going to answer me or do I have to give you more proof?"

Yelena gulped. She really thought that they were being careful. She sighed. "Fine. It's true."

May smirked. "How long?"

"Since graduation."

May's eyes widened. "A year?" Yelena nodded. "Damn, I'm impressed. No one has been able to keep a relationship secret for that long."

"We aren't really dating though." May quirked her brow. "I don't know how to explain it. We don't have titles or a name for what it is we're doing."

"Do you spend the night at his apartment when you're both in DC?" Yelena nodded. "Do you go out to eat or drink?" She nodded again. "Did you two talk about seeing other people?" Yelena shook her head. "Yeah, you're dating."

"Really", Yelena asked.

She was slightly alarmed by what May just said. She and Clint were just hanging out. Having casual sex. Every night. Kissed each other goodbye when one left for a mission. They would spend the day cuddled up together on his couch if they were both off. Yelena's eyes widened. She and Clint are dating. Yes, she has feelings for him. Extremely strong feelings at that, but she didn't think about acting on them. Acting on them 100% anyway.

"Yelena, are you okay?"

May's voice snapped her out of her head. "What? Yeah. Yeah, I'm good."

"You sure?"

"Yeah. Why?"

"Because I said that you and Barton are dating and you look like your whole world just blew up."

"I just didn't really think about it. I guess we got caught up in the moment."

Yelena has never felt this vulnerable before. That's a lie, she has, but only with Natasha and Clint. No one else has ever been able to make her feel this way. And now she's talking to someone else who went right through the walls she put up years ago and it's freaking her out.

"Is it a bad thing?"

Yelena looked at May. "No, it's not. I really enjoy spending time with him. I just didn't think about it. Neither of us actually talked about the concept of dating."

"It doesn't matter if you guys know you're dating or not. The two of you seem great together."

"How do you know that, May?"

"I watched the two of you the whole time you were a cadet. The way he acted around you, he knew so much about you and how to help you. Like the day you got your first panic attack without Natasha being there to help. He showed so much concern for you. Way beyond the concern anyone else would." Yelena smiled softly at the memory. "And you two having late night training sessions."

"You knew about those?"

"I did."

"It was against the rules for cadets to be in the gym after hours. Why didn't you say anything?"

May took a drink from the water bottle. "I knew how hard it was for you to adjust to being free and joining SHIELD. So seeing you talk with someone who wasn't Natasha wasn't something I wanted to interrupt." Yelena smiled at her. "And that rule was stupid anyway. If cadets want to use the gym after hours, let them. As long as they didn't fall asleep in my class, I didn't care what they did."

Yelena laughed. "Thanks May."

May smiled at her. "You're welcome." May put the cap back on the bottle. "I'll see you in the morning, Agent Belova." May walked to the stairs.

"Goodnight, Agent May."

After a little while longer, and a few texts back and forth with Clint, some dirty, Yelena went to the extra bedroom on the Bus. It was nice and small. Very similar to the ones the rest of the team uses. She threw her mission bag on the bed and started stripping out of her civilian clothes she was wearing.

The Next Morning...

Yelena woke up to the buzzing of her phone. It was a text from Natasha saying that she and Clint will be unable to talk with her for a while because they have a mission. She was a little upset because they are the ones she goes to if she needs help or needs someone to talk too.

She got out of the bed and quickly showered. After getting out, she changed into her uniform. She put the widow bite bracelets on her wrists and put on her vest. She didn't zip it up yet.

She walked to the common area and joined the rest of the team. Skye and Jemma were eating their cereal, Ward was finishing his protein shake, and Fitz had just finished his breakfast. Yelena walked to the coffee pot and poured herself a cup.

Coulson and May walked into the common area a few minutes later. They were both in their uniforms. Well, May is anyway. Coulson was wearing his usual three piece suit.

"We have a long day ahead of us, team. Why is the guest the only one actually ready", Coulson asked.

The team minus May scrambled out of the kitchen to get their gear. Yelena and May began laughing at them.

An hour later, the team was getting ready to leave. The government aide met them at the ramp with two jeeps to drive into the mountains.

"You're going to need this", Ward said. He was holding out an icer to Yelena.

"Why", she asked, quirking her brow.

"We don't use lethal force in the field. So, take this."

Yelena laughed. "That's cute. If I need to knock somebody out, I have other means to do it." She walked down the ramp to join Coulson, Jemma, and the aide.

Skye walked up next to Ward. "She's just like May."

"Yeah", May said, suddenly next to them. They both jumped. "But watch out."

"Why", Ward asked.

"She's a damn Black Widow. She's ten times more dangerous than I am."

They both watched May walk down the ramp. Fitz was right behind her. Skye looked at Ward. "Badass", she whispered before walking down the ramp.

Ward nodded. "Yep", he said silently.

They drove through the mountain range to the village. Yelena's currently admiring the view outside the passenger side window of the jeep May was driving. Jemma and Fitz are in the back seats arguing like the day before, but she managed to tune them out. Yelena smiled at the memory of the last time mountains looked this beautiful. It was the day Clint recruited her and Natasha. She peered over Clint's shoulder to look at the mountains while he flew the quinjet.

Two hours had passed and they finally made it to the village. They stopped a small distance away from the entrance to not scare the villagers. The government aide led them into the village, slowly. Yelena instantly noticed all the children running around. The adults were grabbing them away from the team.

"They think we are the enemy", the aide said. "To them, we're nothing more than trespassers who want their land."

"And what is it that you want", Yelena asked.

"We just want the artifact in our hands", he replied. "It belongs to the government."

Yelena noticed the team shrug off what he said, but she remained skeptical. She looked around the village. She noticed the way they were living. It's not even close to modern day living. If she had to guess, she would say this place is a few generations old.

"What do you want with us", an old man asked. Based on looks and the respect he's being shown by the other villagers, he had to be the leader.

"We are here to take possession of the Healer", the aide said.

The village started filling with whispers.

"I cannot allow that to happen", the older man said. "Leave. You have no reason to be here."

"Wait", Coulson almost yelled.

He stepped forward and stopped when some of the young men pulled out machetes and stood ready to attack. Coulson's team instinctively hovered their hands over their icers. May and Yelena were just ready to fight.

"My team and I aren't here to take the artifact. Our scientists just want to examine it. Once we have the information we need, we'll leave."

The elder man contemplated Coulson's words. "I'll allow it. Only three people can see it."

Coulson nodded.

Jemma, Fitz, and Coulson were taken to the tent where the artifact was placed. The two scientists took out their gear and began doing the examination of the 0-8-4. Coulson stood and watched the two work. He would occasionally look at one of the three men who were in the tent too. He would smile at them when they looked at him. They made eye contact with each other after looking at Coulson.

The others were walking around the village. May was staying close to the tent because that's just what she does. Ward and Skye were wandering around and Yelena was watching the government aide. She was watching him talk on the sat phone. She still doesn't trust him.

Yelena turned away when he looked in her direction. She had to talk to Coulson or May. One or both of them would listen to her. Right? Yelena got to the center of the village where a couple of kids were playing. She smiled while watching them. Their laughter and smiles is a nice change in pace for her.

Her own childhood may have been taken away but to her, it was nice to see kids who still had the ability to enjoy life as a kid. It brought warmth to her heart. She was about to move when she felt a slight tug on the sleeve of her uniform. She activated her widow bites but deactivated them when she noticed it is a young girl.

The little girl could not have been older than six or seven. She was smiling at Yelena. Yelena couldn't help but smile back at her. She held her hand out and Yelena opened her hand. The girl placed something in her hand and let go. Yelena looked at what the girl placed in her hand. It was a stone of some sort. A stone tied to a piece of string. She smiled and looked at the girl who was still smiling at her.

"Thank you", Yelena whispered. She watched the little girl run off to another part of the village.

"You should feel honored", a voice said from behind Yelena. She turned to look. It is the elderly man who leads the village. "Our people only give gifts to outsiders as a symbol of trust and friendship."

"She trusts me?"

"Yes, she does. What stone did she give you?" Yelena showed him the necklace. "Ah, chalcedony. A very precious stone."

"What does it mean?"

"It soothes self doubt and brings inner peace. She must've felt that you worry easily and become nervous and jump to the worst conclusions."

"She felt that?"

"Yes. Our gods gave her a great gift." The man looked at Yelena. "She was born deaf. Some of our people believed that she wouldn't be able to pull her weight. They were proven wrong when she started giving our people different stones to help them. It's quite remarkable."

Yelena smiled and looked at the necklace. After a minute of watching the kids play, Yelena spoke again. "How long has the artifact been a part of your life?"

"The Healer has been handed down from generation to generation. We've held it and protected it for over 400 years." Her eyes widened. "Our ancestors found it buried in the mountains. Our stories say that many of them were injured while digging for it. Once they touched it, they were miraculously healed."

"How?"

"It's a gift from the gods, like Mara. It heals the body of every wound. Scars, open wounds, diseases, and even restores limbs."

Mara? That must be the name of the little girl who gave her the necklace. "Really?" The man nodded. "Have you tried letting Mara touch it?"

"Yes, but it didn't work. I have a feeling the gods want it that way. Even with what it can do, I cannot let anyone take it."

"I understand that", Yelena said quietly. "The Spanish government won't see it that way."

"We never had much of an issue with the government until he came here."

She gave him a quizzical look. "He?"

"Two weeks ago, another outsider visited us. He was very injured. Turns out he was hiking through the mountains and fell off a small cliff. We nursed him back to health, but his injuries were severe enough that we let him touch the artifact. It healed him of his wounds. We gave him food and water and sent him on his way. He came back days later with other men with guns. They wanted to take the Healer. We peacefully refused. They got back into their vehicles but not before shooting one of our children. He called it a warning."

Yelena was shocked. "I'm so sorry."

"That's why our men carry weapons and why we became defensive when you and your friends came here."

"I understand that." Yelena watched the kids again. "You speak english very well."

"We've been visited by missionaries a few times. They have been teaching us english."

Yelena saw the government aide walking around. He was looking in all directions before going in the direction of the 0-8-4. "Excuse me", she said to him. He nodded to her.

Yelena put the necklace around her neck, tucked it under her vest, and started following the aide to the tent. He stopped a few yards away and just stood there. She saw Coulson walk out of the tent. He talked to the aide for a moment before walking in her direction.

"Hey Belova, enjoying the mission", Coulson asked.

"Not what I was expecting."

"That makes two of us."

"Coulson, I have a question."

"What is it?"

"How much do you know about the government aide?"

"Not much, why?"

"I don't think he's who he says he is."

"What makes you say that?"

"The leader told me that a guy came here two weeks ago that needed help. They let him touch the 0-8-4 and it healed him. The man came back days later with mercenaries ready to take the artifact. The leader is convinced they were from the government."

"Yelena, that isn't enough to look into someone. What does it have to do with the aide?"

"Have you actually seen any proof he's with the government? And if he wants the artifact so bad, why didn't he argue with you about us just examining it and not taking it?"

"That is a good question."

"I also saw him make a call on a sat phone shortly after Fitzsimmons started examining it."

Coulson looked at the aide. "Let's have a chat with him then."

Yelena nodded. "I'll make sure he can't leave." She walked back to where she was while Coulson walked to the aide.

"You mind if we talk?"

The aide looked at him. "Of course, Agent Coulson."

"Why does your government want the artifact?"

"Excuse me?"

"Why does the Spanish government want the artifact? What is their use for it besides advancing their own interests?"

"I'm sorry, Agent Coulson. I can't tell you that."

"You can't tell me because you're not with the government?"

He stared at Coulson. Before he replied, he pushed Coulson back and took off running for the entrance. May took off after him. Ward and Skye grabbed out their icers. Before they could fire or May could tackle him, he was suddenly being electrocuted. May stopped running. Ward and Skye kept their icers up. The guy fell to the ground. Yelena walked out from behind one of the huts and walked to the body.

"Those things are awesome", Coulson said, walking by Skye and Ward.

"What just happened", Ward asked.

"She used widow bites", May said. "You don't want to be on the receiving end of one."

Skye smiled, "Badass." Ward nodded in agreement.

* * * * * * *

Coulson threw the guy against the jeep. "What are you doing here?"

The guy stayed silent. Ward cuffed him to the jeep. The two men joined Yelena and May.

"He's not going to talk", Ward said.

"Yes he will", Yelena said. "He just needs the right motivation."

"Good thinking", Coulson said. He walked over to the guy and started talking.

"What kind of motivation", May asked.

"Give me three minutes and we will know every deep, dark secret."

Ward's eyes widened slightly. He brushed it off. "What doesn't make sense is why. Why did we get called in by the government?"

"Not why, Ward", May said. "It's who."

"And who was he calling before", Yelena asked.

After a few minutes, Coulson walked back over to the three agents. "He sang like a canary."

"What did he say", Yelena asked.

"The mercenaries the elder told you about are on their way back. The guy he said came to the village is actually a former magistrate official."

"Explains the official government call", Ward said.

"He called it in to them", Yelena said. "How far out are they?"

"Ten minutes", Coulson said. "Go tell the villagers." Yelena and Ward went back to the village.

"What did you say to make him talk?"

"That there is a dangerous assassin on this team who can torture him for hours on end because she doesn't follow the rules of interrogation."

May smiled. "Nice call."

Ten minutes was not enough time to prepare. The agents and young men helped prepare the village for what is coming.

Two jeeps quickly pulled up to the entrance of the village. Ten men, all armed to the teeth, exited and entered the village. It was absolute silence. Not a single villager was in sight. The ten men began walking around; their guns at the ready.

Yelena had a good eye on the mercs. They began to split up. She knew that would cause problems because one of team would be seen. She quickly nodded to May. May quickly moved behind the mercenary that was farthest from the group. She instantly took the guy down but his gun went off.

The fire fight began. The nine men left took cover behind the huts. Coulson, Ward, Yelena, and some of the young villagers came out from their hiding positions.

Trained mercenaries probably isn't the right word to use to describe the men. They're far beyond that. Some of the most well trained mercs she has ever seen. She had an eye on one of them. He was keeping Coulson pinned from being able to move positions. She ran at him. She wrapped her arm around his neck, flipped her body, causing him to flip over. She gave him a swift punch to the face and he was out.

Before anything else could happen, Yelena heard metal crashing into metal. Based on the sounds, she knew it was something hitting the jeeps at the entrance of the village. A large truck with a bumper guard barreled through the village. She jumped out of the way just in time. It stopped in the center of the village.

More armed men got out and started firing at the team and the fighting villagers. A door to the truck opened and a large man with a mask got out. He took a grenade off his vest and threw it into the village. He threw a few more. The villagers began running wild giving more targets to the mercs. The team started helping them get to cover.

Yelena had the big guy in her sight. She saw that he was making hand gestures and the mercenaries were advancing. He had to be the leader. The one who touched the artifact two weeks ago.

Yelena pulled out her gun and held it in her hands. She took a deep breath to calm down. She aimed at the large man. She fired three shots and the guy hit the truck then fell to the ground. She ran to cover by the truck. She took aim and dropped another guy. Screw non lethal.

Admist all the yelling and screaming, she heard the distinct sound of wailing. She looked over the side of the truck to see the young girl, the one who gave her the necklace, was crying and laying on the ground. She saw a merc walking up to Mara. She quickly ran to her. She jumped on the guy's back and wrapped her legs around his neck. Using her body weight, she flipped him over. Yelena heard a cracking sound when he hit the ground but ignored it. She picked the girl up and for cover.

Yelena got to cover by the tent hiding the 0-8-4. She set the girl down and looked at Coulson. He motioned for her to get inside the tent. She ran into the tent, Mara holding her hand. She saw Fitz and Jemma holding their icers and packing their gear.

"What's going on", Yelena asked. The girl still clutching her hand.

"He wanted to talk to you", Fitz said.

Yelena turned her head to see the elder man in the tent. "What is it?"

"You must take the artifact and leave", he said.

"What? No. It belongs to you and your people."

"The gods brought you here for a reason. Not to defend us. Not to defend it, but to take it."

Before she could reply, she felt a tug on her arm. She looked down at the young girl. She had stopped crying and was smiling at the blonde agent. She nodded to Yelena and let go of her hand. Yelena stared perplexed at the girl for a second then at the elder man. He nodded to her.

Yelena stepped forward and placed a hand on the 0-8-4. It started glowing. She then felt a surge of pain go through her entire body. She fell to the ground, screaming, but she was still clutching it. Jemma instantly ran to her side.

"Yelena, are you okay?"

Once she caught her breath and wasn't in pain, she nodded to the young scientist. "I'm okay." Yelena got to her feet. "We have to leave. They'll follow us and will leave the villagers alone."

"How do we leave", Fitz asked.

Yelena looked out the entrance of the tent. "The truck", she said simply. "We're going to take the truck."

Yelena and Coulson covered Fitz, Jemma, and Skye while they got to the truck. May and Ward jumped into the bed of the truck. Yelena got in after them. She made it obvious that she had the artifact in hand. Coulson ran to the drivers side and drove off in reverse. The mercs yelled something and took off after them.

They got into the jeeps that were still working and went after them. Some of them hung out the windows and fired at the truck. Yelena, Ward, and May were ducking down because they were in the bed of the truck. Ward fired back but icers were less effective on vehicles.

"Coulson, drive faster", May yelled.

"I'm trying", Coulson yelled back.

Yelena tried to think of a way to stop them. She ran out of bullets at the village and there were no weapons in the truck. The she remembered something. She opened a pocket on her vest and grabbed out an arrowhead. May and Ward looked at her confused.

"What the hell is that", Ward asked.

"A trick arrowhead."

"Where did you get that", Skye asked.

"I may have taken it from Clint's office before we left."

"Of course you did", Coulson said. "Will it work?"

"I hope so."

"Hope so", May asked.

"It's one of the prototype arrowheads. And I don't know the power of this one."

"Are you sure it's a good idea to use it", Jemma asked.

"It's the only idea we have", Ward said. "Will it work without an arrow?"

"Theoretically. He never told me if it would."

"Fantastic", the whole team mumbled.

Yelena looked at the arrowhead, trying to figure out how to activate it. She really has to talk to Clint about these things first. She fidgeted with it until the butt of it turned. It started beeping and blinking. She looked at Ward and May. They were looking back at her.

"Distract them", she said to Ward.

He got up and fired at the two jeeps. Yelena peeked over the top of the bed and saw that they were right next to each other. Clint told her that's where the vehicles must be for the arrow to be most effective. The beeping was getting louder. She threw it in between the jeeps. A second later, a blast wave blew the jeeps into the air and they crashed and rolled.

The team started cheering.

On the Bus...An Hour From D.C...

Yelena was sitting on the couch in the common area. She was rubbing her thumb over the stone that Mara had given her. She was waiting for Jemma to come back with her diagnosis. She insisted, and Coulson ordered, that she get examined to make sure the 0-8-4 didn't do anything to her.

"How are you feeling", Skye asked. She handed Yelena a water bottle.

"I'm fine", Yelena said. She grabbed the water bottle and drank it.

Skye noticed Yelena was tightly holding the necklace. "I'm sure they're okay."

Yelena nodded. "It didn't feel right taking the artifact from them."

"It was the only way to protect them."

"I know, but it's been with them for generations. How could we take it?"

"Sometimes I ask myself that question too."

"You ever get any answers?"

"Not really. Coulson tried to explain it like this, we monitor threats to the world and every 0-8-4 falls under that category in some way. By taking possession of them, we ensure that no one else can."

Yelena smiled. "That sounds more like Fury than Coulson."

Skye smiled back. "That's probably where he got it."

Both women started laughing.

One Hour Later...

The Bus landed on the only landing pad available. Yelena walked down the ramp with her gear bag in hand. The rest of the team was close behind her. Three agents met Ward at the bottom to take hold of the artifact. Coulson was giving them instructions while Yelena, May, and Jemma talked.

Yelena hugged Jemma. She was relieved to hear that the 0-8-4 didn't do anything to her but she expected that. She didn't have any wounds or scars she knew about. Yelena shook May's hand. She was glad she got a chance to work with May again.

Yelena waved at the other three agents and shook Coulson's hand. She walked back through the doors of the landing pad. May walked back up the ramp and watched Yelena walk into the building. Coulson met her at the top.

"You ever wonder what would've happened if Barton did what he was ordered to do", Coulson asked.

"Nope. If there is one thing I know I couldn't change in Barton's mind is his ability to follow his own instincts. And I don't think he would change it either. Especially after what happened."

"What happened?"

May smirked. "I'm not telling you."

"Oh come on, May. What is it?"

"Be more observant of the agent you used to handle."

Yelena walked through the Triskelion. She still had so much energy, but at the same time, she wanted sleep. She walked to Clint's office. Yelena didn't know if they were back yet, but she didn't care. Clint's couch is so comfortable and there's a bottle of something behind his desk.

When she arrived to his office, she saw the lights on which is a good sign. She got to the door and immediately heard laughter. Laughter that she recognized as her two best friends. Yelena knocked on the open door and watched them turn to look at her.

"There's the badass agent", Natasha said.

Yelena smiled and walked into the office. "What?"

"Coulson said that you're the reason they got out of there", Clint said.

"And got the 0-8-4", Natasha added.

"I had help", Yelena said.

"From one of my trick arrows", Clint asked.

Yelena looked between the two.

"Coulson told us about that too", Natasha said.

"How", Yelena asked.

"He texted me when you guys were in our airspace", Clint said.

Yelena walked over to Clint with a sheepish smiled. "Sorry."

Clint rolled his eyes and shook his head. He pulled her into a hug. "I'm glad you're okay."

She smiled and melted into the hug. She kissed his cheek when they pulled away. Natasha grabbed her into a hug. Clint grabbed a third glass from his desk. He poured the whiskey into it and handed it to Yelena.

The three of them clinked their glasses together. Yelena leaned into Clint for comfort. Natasha smiled at them. They began talking about their missions. Although Clint and Natasha both agreed that Yelena had the better mission. The two older agents enjoyed Yelena telling them about her mission and the villagers she had met. She especially told them about the necklace and Mara.

Chapter 14: Insight

Thirteen Years Ago...

"You hear me", Clint asked after the helmet was placed on his head.

"I got you", his partner replied. He looked around at all the locals watching them. "Be quick, Barton. I don't like the look of this."

"Understood, Wilson."

Clint walked slowly to the old car. The weight of his suit making it difficult to move. He got to the car and looked at all the different openings. No visible wires. He examined the under carriage. Nothing. Clint kicked the trunk and it popped open, and there it was, the large ass bomb he was looking for.

"Found it", Clint said into the radio.

"Good. Disarm the thing and let's get out of here."

"I don't know if that will be possible, Sam. It's a body bomb. And there are three bodies in here; all kids."

"Damn", Sam muttered. "Hey soldier, status?"

The soldier that was aiding in the evacuation of the building looked at Sam. "Evacuation complete, Sir."

"Good. Hey Barton, evacuation is done. Leave the bomb."

"Can't do that, Sam."

"What the hell are you talking about? You said you couldn't disarm it."

"I can't disarm it easily. I still might be able to stop it."

Sam clenched his fist. "This crowd is getting bigger Clint. Let's leave now."

Clint looked at the bodies, then turned to look at Sam, then turned again to look at the bodies.

Present Day...

"We can't control what we bring back. We can only control how we confront it", Sam said.

Clint snapped himself out of his head to look at the man behind the podium. He's watching Sam talk to a group of veterans. Everyone got up and left the room. Clint stood by the door to the room and waited for the last veteran to exit. He entered the room and saw Sam packing up his things.

"Bravo Mike", Clint said.

Sam froze. He slowly turned his head to look at the man who said that. Then he turned his body. "Bravo One."

Clint smiled and stepped forward. He shook Sam's extended hand. "It's good to see you again, Sam."

Sam smiled. "You too, Clint."

"You wanna catch up over coffee? Only if you have the time."

Sam nodded. "Yeah, let's go."

The two went to a diner that was a few miles away from the VA hospital. They took a seat at a booth by the window. With a coffee in hand, the men sat in silence for a moment. Then Sam spoke.

"How have you been, Clint? Enjoying your job with SHIELD?"

Clint took a sip from his coffee cup. "I've been good. Working for SHIELD is interesting." Sam laughed lightly. "How about you? When did you get out?"

"A year ago. Moved to D.C shortly after to work at the VA."

"Helping the ones who brought something back, huh?"

Sam nodded. "Don't want people going through what I did."

"What do you mean?"

"When Bravo finished its tour, I was not okay. I was drinking all the time, getting into fights, getting arrested, my girlfriend even broke up with me. I came home really screwed up, man."

Clint sighed. "I'm sorry, Sam."

Sam shook his head. "It's fine. As stupid as it sounds, joining the Air Force helped me. Being in the air cleared my head."

Clint smiled. "It's good you found an escape."

"What about you, Clint? Did you bring anything back?"

Clint's smile faded. He stared at the cup before nodding. "I did. I brought a lot of it back."

"Like what?"

Clint felt tears start to well in the corner of his eyes. "Everything Sam. Everything. Honestly, that's why I came looking for you. I had a nightmare last night."

"What was it about?"

"Do you remember the car with the body bombs?"

Sam's eyes moved to look at something beside Clint. "How could I forget."

"It bit me in the ass last night. I don't know what to do."

"When I moved to D.C, I still suffered from some of the more terrible days in EOD. I kept seeing that suicide bomber that was pleading for help." Clint nodded. "I found out the easiest way to conquer the nightmare is to keep moving forward and not let it take control."

Clint laughed lightly. "Easier said than done."

Sam nodded. He spoke again after a few seconds. "When I found out that SHIELD headquarters is here, I wanted to look for you. I decided against it because I thought seeing each other would unearth old wounds. Wounds neither of us wanted to face."

"Don't blame yourself, Sam. It's not like we were the best of friends in Baghdad."

"Maybe not, but it doesn't mean either of us couldn't have made an effort. We spent 365 days together. That kind of job requires a certain bond." Clint smiled at his words. Then he started laughing. "What's so funny?"

"You're perfect for the VA because if you gave me that load of BS."

Sam started laughing too. "I met Captain America", he said when he calmed down.

"Oh yeah? When?"

"Yesterday morning when we were running around the Reflecting Pool."

"How many laps did he have on you?"

"Nine", Sam said. Clint laughed lightly. "I felt like I was gonna die."

"That's why I don't train with the man. I know I'm gonna lose."

Sam smiled. He took a drink of his coffee. "I have to ask, have you been in touch with Vanessa?"

Clint sighed. "Not in a long time. Lost contact with her a few years after I joined SHIELD."

"Maybe you should get back into contact with her."

"Not a good idea, Sam."

"Why not? She meant the world to you. Or so you've said when I caught you talking to her on the sat phone."

"Exactly, she meant the world to me. Not anymore." Clint thought for a second. "There's someone else in my life now that means everything to me. Two people actually but only one in that way."

Sam smirked. "Is she a SHIELD agent too?"

"Yep."

"Is it the one who picked up Captain America yesterday morning? The hot redhead?"

Clint choked on his coffee. "Nope. It's her sister."

Sam smirked. "I'm happy for you, Clint. It's good to have that support system."

"Don't VA me, Wilson. I already have a shrink doing that." Clint remembered he hasn't seen her since he got back from Haiti.

Sam smiled. "Sorry, force of habit."

Clint and Sam got back to the VA a little while later. They actually enjoyed talking about some of their memories from EOD; much to the surprise of both men. The tow hugged each other when they got to Clint's SUV.

"Can't believe it took us 13 years to see each other again", Clint said.

"Better late than never", Sam said.

Clint smiled. "Hope to see you again sometime, Sam."

"You too, Clint."

Clint got back to the Triskelion. He was relieved to see Steve and Natasha back from their Lemurian Star mission. He could see the anger in Steve's eyes. Clearly something had gone wrong. He watched Steve walk to the elevators, then it clicked. Fury did something wrong.

"What the hell happened that pissed off Steve", Clint asked.

"He found out I was given orders different from his to back up information from the boat. And Fury and I didn't tell him."

"You think Fury is going to show him Project Insight?"

Natasha crossed her arms over her chest. "Maybe." She looked at him. "Where were you?"

"I was meeting up with an old companion."

"Companion? Is it like the companion in New York?"

Clint looked at her. "Nope. He's someone I haven't seen in 13 years."

"Before GHOST?"

Clint nodded. "My last calm before the storm." The two stood in silence for a moment. "You better get the drive to Fury. He doesn't like it when you're late."

"He's probably busy arguing with Steve. I want to see Yelena."

Clint out his hands up. "Fair enough."

Clint walked to his office and closed the door behind him. Stacks of paper still covered his desk. No matter what he does, the stride he makes in his research, he can't stop the piling of giant stacks of paper on his desk. He sat down and began going through it all.

Hours Later...

Clint walked through his office, placing a stack of files on a small table. He had a few small tables brought into his office to help keep everything organized. He had no idea why he didn't think about this sooner. Each table was covered in files and paper.

The stacks of files all had post it notes with different titles. One stack represented possible locations where Valentina could be hiding. Other stacks were possible bases, weapon specs, and potential targets. He just finished the files on the different explosives they have access too, and it scared the shit out of Clint.

He was looking at five of the most dangerous non-nuclear explosives in the world. TATP included on the list. If Poseidon's Blood is looking into these explosive chemicals, then they must be planning something bad. Not bad, TERRIBLE.

Clint's phone buzzed to life on his desk. He closed the bomb folder and walked over to grab it. He froze when he read the text. It was from Natasha saying that Fury's SUV was attacked. She then sent him the location. Without hesitating, Clint grabbed his jacket and ran out the door of his office.

He sped through the streets of D.C to the crash site. His phone kept buzzing the whole way because Natasha was sending him the police reports on the crash. She also sent brief explanations about each one. Clint arrived at the scene and became horrified. Fury's SUV was flipped over, a truck that took out two police squad cars, and other destroyed police vehicles. He exited his SUV and walked over to Fury's flipped SUV.

Clint crouched down on the driver's side of the SUV. He stared at the hole made in the roof of the car that went into the road. He turned his head to look at the door that was thrown ten feet away from the car. Not even a crash like this could've thrown the door like that. Someone or something tore it off its hinges.

He stood up to take a look at the many bullet holes that covered the vehicle. Clint walked around the vehicle, scanning all the damage. It did not line up with the motive of Poseidon's Blood, so Clint wasn't convinced it was them.

"What the hell happened here", he whispered. Clint looked at the whole mess of the scene. "Whoever did this really wants Fury dead."

Clint was back at the Triskelion after spending an hour at the crash site. He moved the files on Poseidon's Blood off his desk and replaced them with photos from the crash site. He also looked at police reports and witness statements.

The sun was setting and D.C always looked beautiful with the sun against the skyline. Clint smiled as he looked out the window. He never did get tired of this view.

"Natasha told me what happened", Yelena said. "How are you doing?"

Clint never stopped looking out the full length window. "I'm not okay. No one knows where Fury is right now. Witnesses say that it was metro PD who shot at Fury. They claim no units were assigned that area. And Fury called someone before it all happened."

Yelena grabbed his hand. "Do you want me to help?"

Clint's hand tightened. "I don't know. Pierce doesn't want me looking into it."

"Why not? You're the most qualified person for it."

"I don't know. He said I should focus on Poseidon's Blood but he knows I would drop everything to find Fury or who attacked him."

"Has Coulson been told?"

Clint nodded. "I told him. He can't be here because he's at the Hub." They both stared out the window. "I don't know what to do, Lena."

Yelena leaned her head on his shoulder. She didn't care who saw them, she just had to be there for Clint. "We can go home. There's no reason for you to be here right now."

Clint sighed. He leaned his head against the window. Yelena had never seen him look this defeated. "Yeah, let's go home."

The two agents went back to Clint's apartment. The whole drive home, Clint's mind was focused on Fury. Why did Pierce not want him investigating the accident?

When they got to the apartment, they both went to bed. Yelena cuddled up to Clint; she whispered soothing words to help him stay calm. Soon enough, they were both asleep. Then Clint's phone started buzzing. Clint carefully moved to grab the phone. Yelena was still asleep.

"Hey Nat", Clint said still sleepy. "What's going on?"

"Clint...", was all Natasha could say. She was in a quiet room in the hospital. She was trying to keep herself composed enough to tell the news to her friend.

Clint sat up slightly. He sensed the uneasiness in her tone. "Natasha, what's going on?"

Natasha shut her eyes to stop the tears. "It's Fury." Clint stayed frozen. "He's gone, Clint."

Clint started to shake. "What", he asked louder than he thought. Yelena stirred at his tone.

"I'm sorry, Clint...Fury's dead."

Clint stared off into space. A ringing overtook his ears. He wasn't sure if Natasha was still talking or if Yelena was talking to him either. The phone dropped out of his hand onto the bed. Clint threw the sheets off him and stumbled to the living room.

Yelena was about to go after him but she instead grabbed the phone. She saw Natasha as the caller ID. She started talking to her sister. Clint stumbled to the middle of the living room. He was holding his ears to get the ringing to stop, but it wasn't working.

His whole world felt like it was coming down. He fell to his knees with a loud thud and let the tears flow. He wants to scream. He wants to throw something, shoot something, break something. Anything, but his body was frozen in place. Clint felt a warm arm wrap around his waist and a head rest against his own.

"I'm so sorry, Clint", Yelena said. She pressed a soft kiss to his cheek.

Clint just continued to sit there. He let the tears he knows he can't hold back, flow.

The Next Day...

Clint stared at his hands on the desk. He was so distracted that he couldn't even look at a single photo of the crash site, Poseidon's Blood, or any photo from the scene at Steve's apartment.

Natasha came by to talk to him, but there wasn't much said. Not on his part anyway. She tried to console him, but he wasn't showing any emotion. She understood that. Natasha knew not to push Clint to talk because she really didn't feel like talking. She was unsure if he heard her say she was going back to the hospital. She wants to find answers her own way.

Steve also came by his office. He didn't stay as long as Natasha though. He said he was sorry, but it went in one ear and out the other. After Natasha told him Fury was shot in Steve's apartment, he has slight resentment toward Steve. He doesn't know the full story, maybe, but Steve isn't being honest with him. He knows it. Before he could ask, Steve left to see Pierce.

Yelena was the only one to not check on him. Clint wasn't upset about it though. She was with him when he found out; that's all he could've asked of her. She understood to give him the space he needs to process the news. All that made worse because of Clint's blind loyalty to Fury. Yelena didn't think of it as blind loyalty, but knew that Clint holds a lot of trust and respect for the man. And she knew that he showed Clint the same courtesy.

Clint almost didn't hear the mission alert going off on his phone. The combination of all the choppers flying around the building and his mind wandering kept him from reality. Clint stood from his chair and walked out of his office to the elevator.

He arrived on the top floor of the Triskelion. On his way up, he saw another elevator with a hole in the glass. He looked down to see another hole in the glass roof above the main entrance. What the hell happened? Clint walked to the Security Council room and saw Pierce standing in the room with a tablet. He waved Clint into the room.

"Secretary", Clint said.

"Agent Barton. Thank you for coming."

"Well, you ordered me here."

Pierce smirked. "I never got the chance to say I'm sorry about Fury. I know how close you two were."

"Thank you, Sir. I should say the same. Fury has told me a lot about how much you've done for him."

Pierce smiled. "Thank you, Agent Barton. Now done to business." He handed Clint the tablet with a video ready to play.

Clint pressed play. He watched Steve enter an elevator. Strike agents and other agents joining him every couple of floors. Eventually, he saw them attack Steve. Clint was impressed that they got the upper hand on Steve, but the victory was short lived. The super soldier took them down quickly. Then he jumped out of the elevator. That explains what he saw on his way up.

"Captain Rogers has valuable information regarding Director Fury's death. When I tried to talk to him, he lied to me. I knew he had to be restrained. That obviously didn't work. Now I'm using my last resort."

"Sir, with all do respect, the Ghost will not be used to hunt Steve."

"I'm not asking you too, Agent Barton. Your skill set is next level compared to the Strike team. The proof is in what happened in Haiti. I want you to find Rogers and bring him in alive. Kill him if necessary."

Clint nodded to his superior and walked out.

Clint sped through the city on the motorcycle. The quinjet flying above him had Steve in its sight. He had a twelve minute head start on them.

"Captain Rogers is 40 meters ahead, Sir", a pilot said.

"Good. Pull back. Stay on me."

The quinjet slowed down until it was on top of Clint. He could see the shield. Clint sped up to catch up with Steve. He had obviously been spotted because Steve turned to the right; towards the edge of the city. Clint turned his head to see Steve was originally going to the hospital until he turned.

Steve looked at the mirror of his motorcycle. He saw another motorcycle getting dangerously close to him. He couldn't tell who the rider was because he was wearing a helmet. Steve had to get back to the city, and quick, because he has to get the drive Fury gave him.

He saw his opportunity. He was about to turn onto the highway until the quinjet cut off his path. Going in the direction he was being chased, he saw a small forest that leads to a dam. If he can get to it, he can lay low. That was the plan until something blew his front tire and he flew forward.

Clint watched Steve quickly recover from the knife he threw at the motorcycle wheel. Stopping just short of the crashed motorcycle, Clint got off his, took off the helmet, and walked into the forest. His bow and quiver, previously attached to sides of the motorcycle, now on him.

"Sir, be aware we will lose radio connection", a pilot said.

"Understood", Clint replied.

Clint walked and watched for blue. Steve knew how to hide, but his suit and shield won't help him hide in the forest. Steve, with shield in hand, hid behind a big tree. He peered his head out to look for the guy chasing him. He heard a twig snap close by; that causing him to run in the opposite direction.

Clint pulled back on the string of the bow when he saw Steve run. He doesn't want to kill Steve, or hurt him, but he wants answers about Fury. Answers only Steve can provide. He let go of the string and the arrow flew.

Steve ran through the forest. He jumped over rocks and brush in his way. Then he lost his footing. A small explosion behind him blew him off his feet and forward. Using his shield, he rolled back onto his feet and kept running.

Steve was suddenly in the air again. Another explosion. It took him a few seconds longer to recover but he was still quick. He took cover behind a tree. He didn't see anyone. Then a whistling followed by another explosion. This time, he hit a tree. Steve groaned while sitting up. Then something hit the tree, mere centimeters from his head. He turned his head and looked at what almost hit him. An arrow.

"Barton", he whispered.

Steve used his shield to push himself to his feet. He stood and looked around at the forest. He couldn't see anyone. Suddenly an arrow hit his shield. His eyes widened. Before he could react, the arrow blew. It was a blast wave arrow so Steve flew far.

He hit the ground on his back. He felt so much pain. Steve really had to give it to Clint; he knows how to make arrows. Steve rolled over in pain. He was on all fours, but before he could get up, something hit him in the face. It hit him hard enough to knock his helmet off. Even his shield flew off his arm.

When Steve was able to recover, he turned his head to look at the man chasing him. There before him is the archer he had fought alongside since New York. And he really did not look happy.

"Tell me what you know, Steve."

"I can't do that, Clint."

Clint smirked. "The man who hates secrets is keeping one of his own. One that can help bring some understanding to SHIELD."

Steve clenched his fists. He wanted to tell Clint, he really did. He knew he shouldn't though. "Clint, I can't tell you why Fury was in my apartment."

Clint's grip around his bow tightened. "Why not?"

"Fury said not to trust anyone, Clint. I'm sorry."

Clint closed his eyes and sighed. He heard the jet getting closer. "So am I."

Clint quickly grabbed another arrow and fired at Steve. He dodged it but didn't see Clint's bow coming to meet his face again. Barely maintaining his balance, Steve dodged the next blow. He knocked the bow out of Clint's hands. Now they were in a fist fight. Clint knew how to dodge Steve's punches. They were both able to land blows on the other.

Clint swept Steve's leg out from under him. Steve quickly got back up and ran at Clint. He tackled the archer to the ground. Clint tried to move, but he knew the super soldier had him pinned. Steve, still on top of him, was ready to punch Clint.

"There's a tracker in the suit", Clint said.

Steve quirked his brow and loosened his grip on Clint's suit. "What did you say?"

"There's a tracker in your suit, Cap. That's how we found you so fast. The jet overhead is gonna land in the clearing 50 meters to the east. Agents with orders to kill will exit it. You have to be gone by then."

Steve was confused. "Why are you telling me this?"

Before Clint could answer, they heard the quinjet land. "Make it look good, Cap."

Steve looked back at Clint. "What?"

"Make it look good."

Steve looked back at the direction of the landed quinjet then back at Clint. "Sorry." He punched Clint square in the face. Clint was out cold. He picked up his shield and ran back to the motorcycles.

Clint slowly opened his eyes. Bright LED light making him cover his eyes. He blinked a few times before adjusting to the light. He looked around the room. He was in a Triskelion medical room. He got down from the chair and walked out of the room. His rule is no doctor, don't stay.

He walked straight to the elevator. He has to talk to Pierce. Arriving on the floor, Clint walked to Pierce's office. Pierce waved him into the room.

"Sir", Clint said, standing at attention.

"I understand you almost had him."

"Almost, Sir. He got the upper hand."

"He ditched his suit so we can't track him anymore. The strike team thought they had him in the mall but lost him."

"I'm sorry, Sir. How long was I out?"

"It's alright, Agent Barton. Only two and a half hours."

"Do I have new orders?"

"Yes. There is someone in Paris I want you and Agent Belova to stakeout."

"Agent Belova and I?"

"Is that a problem?"

"No, Sir. When do we leave?"

"Two hours." Pierce handed Clint a folder. "Get your gear and inform Agent Belova."

"Yes, Sir."

Clint walked out of Pierce's office and went to the elevator. Instead of stopping on his floor, Clint stopped on a different floor. He walked down to the end of the hallway. He read the plaque next to the door. 'Director N. Fury'. He opened the door and closed it behind him.

Clint walked behind the desk and stared out the window. Something about this whole thing felt off. He knew there is something he's missing but what is it? Clint turned to face the desk.

"You're a man of many mysteries", Clint said aloud. He ran his hand along the underside of Fury's desk. "What are you hiding, Fury?"

Clint's fingers found a button at the end of the desk. He pressed it. A small compartment on the bottom of his desk opened. He was beyond confused. What was Fury hiding? Clint bent down to pick up the contents. He held it up in his hands. It's a key of some sort. Nothing else was in the small compartment.

He placed the key in the pocket of his uniform jacket. He walked out of Fury's office and went back to the elevator. He has to find Yelena. She's the only person here he can trust right now. He knew he also has to contact Coulson.

Clint got to his floor and went to his office. Lucky for him, Yelena was standing by the door. Yelena was about to talk when Clint grabbed her hand and pulled her into his office; shutting the door behind them. She was about to speak again only Clint put his finger against her lips to keep her quiet. He shook his head at her. She nodded in understanding.

He took his finger off her mouth and began walking around his office. Slowly. Yelena watched him, confused. Clint examined everything in his office closely. He unplugged his desk phone. He glided his hand under every surface; checking each item where someone could place a listening device.

Once he was sure the office was clean, he walked over to his computer. He started typing an encrypted message to Coulson. An alert that read: "Be on alert. We are not alone. Jungle book". Once sent, Clint unplugged his computer.

"We're good", Clint said to Yelena.

She was just standing there, blinking at him. "With what?"

"SHIELDs been compromised. That's why Fury was shot. And why SHIELD is hunting Captain Rogers."

"How do you know SHIELD has been compromised?"

"Have you been in contact with Natasha?"

"What?"

Clint started grabbing his gear. Including a jump drive that had all of the information on Poseidon's Blood on it. "Have you been in contact with Natasha?"

"Yes. We talked before she went to the hospital. Not since then. Why?"

"You and I are going to Paris. Pierce's orders."

"Clint, what are you talking about?" He was about to walk past her but she got in his path. She placed a hand on his chest. "Clint, calm down." He took a deep breath. "What's going on?"

Clint took another deep breath. "I think SHIELD has been compromised. Something about the recent events haven't made much sense."

Yelena nodded. "Okay. And why are we going to Paris?"

Clint held up the folder Pierce gave him. "Pierce have us a mission. I'm not sure we can trust him."

"Then why are we following his orders?"

"To make everything seem normal. I don't know who we can trust. Steve is up to something."

"What about Natasha?"

"We can't involve her. She might be the only help Steve has."

It took Yelena a second to understand what he said. She nodded. "Okay. When do we leave?"

"Soon. Get your gear and talk to no one."

"What about you?"

"There's something I have to take care of real quick." He pressed a kiss to her forehead and ran out of his office.

An hour later, the two agents were in the quinjet on the way to Paris. Halfway through the 7 hour flight, Yelena had fallen asleep in the co-pilot seat. Clint set the jet in autopilot. He took off his jacket and placed it over her. He set a hand on her shoulder for a second before walking to the back of the jet. He had to check his gear.

It was very early in the morning when they landed in Paris. Their mission was to gather intel on a high valuable target selling weapons to U.S enemies. They were staying at the hotel across the street from a cafe where the target eats his breakfast. And sells weapons.

They were staying at a fancy hotel too. Nice, large rooms. Large beds; which caught their attention for both reasons. The two instantly fell asleep upon hitting the soft mattress. Clint was pleased. All of this on SHIELDs dime.

The two agents spent the next day watching their target at the cafe. They took turns on the camera; taking pictures of the man. Yelena is the one currently taking pictures of the guy their target is meeting. Clint's switching through news channels. He kept seeing the same thing, that SHIELD and other government agencies are hunting both Steve Rogers and Natasha Romanov.

"Great, now they're looking for Natasha", Clint said.

"You think they are working together?"

"They have to be. Natasha is the only one Steve can rely on in this situation."

"Then they know what they're doing. You have to trust them."

Clint sighed. "I know. I just wish I was there to help."

Yelena set the camera down and walked over to him. "You would rather be hunted by your own government than be in Paris with me?"

Clint smiled. "When you put it like that..." He kissed her. "I just hope they're okay."

Yelena laid her head on his shoulder. "Me too."

Their target left the cafe about an hour later. They were unsure if he made a sale but they didn't really care too much. Once they were sure he was gone, they had their own fun. They spent the whole night in each other's arms. They really knew how to take advantage of the large bed.

Clint woke up the next morning to the loud ringing of the hotel room phone. He rolled his exhausted eyes and grabbed it. "Hello?" Clint shot straight up. "Natasha?" Yelena turned her head at the mention of her sister's name. "Yeah, I'll turn it on now." Clint turned on the TV. Both their eyes widened. They were looking at the Triskelion with an Insight Helicarrier hanging out the side of it. The other two Carriers destroyed and in the Bay. "Nat, are you okay?" Yelena watched Clint let out a breath of relief. She smiled. "What about Steve?" He breathed another sigh of relief. "Yeah, we'll head back today."

Clint handed the phone to Yelena. He heard the two begin to talk. Well, he only heard Yelena's side but he smiled at the joy in her voice to hear her sister's voice. He made a beeline for the shower. Once he got out, letting Yelena in, he started packing up their gear.

"What are we going to do about our mission", Yelena asked. She walked out of the bathroom wet and in nothing but a towel.

"We'll hand it over to Interpol. They've been waiting on something to move on."

"How do you know?"

Clint turned to look at her. "I have a friend in Interpol."

Yelena smiled. "Of course you do." She noticed Clint still staring at her. "What?"

"We don't really have to be back in D.C right away. We could spend some time here?"

She knew exactly what he meant. She untied the towel and let it fall to her ankles. "Let's see what you can do, Agent Barton."

Clint smiled. Yelena could see the lust in his eyes. He walked toward her and lifted her.

Three Weeks Later...

Clint saw the four figures standing at the gravestone. He recognized Steve and Natasha right away. He saw Fury walking away in glasses and wearing a hood. It was a nice look on him. Then Clint saw the man standing next to Steve. He knew he would see that man again. Yelena was walking next to Clint.

"Bravo Mike", Clint yelled.

The four people turned to look at the two walking toward them.

Sam smiled and shook his head. "Bravo One." Sam pulled Clint into a hug.

"You two know each other", Steve asked.

"We were partners in Baghdad", Clint said. "Sam was my overwatch while I disarmed bombs."

"Really", Natasha asked. "You had an overwatch?"

"Overwatch is pushing it", Sam said. "I kept swearing that Clint would be the reason I was gonna die in that god forsaken desert. He was so reckless."

"He still is", Yelena said with a smirk. Clint scowled at her. She and Natasha began laughing.

"It's good to see you, Cap."

"You too, Clint. I'm glad you both are okay."

"Thanks Captain", Yelena said.

"They were in Paris when it happened", Natasha said with a small smile.

"Paris? You went to Paris while we risked our lives", Sam asked.

"It was a mission", Yelena said.

"I've done my part. I deserved a vacation", Clint said.

Everyone began laughing. Clint turned his head to look at Fury, who was a few yards away from the group. He motioned with his head for Clint to join him. He excused himself from the group and walked over to Fury. He shook the older man's hand.

"I'm glad you're okay, Sir", Clint said.

Fury gave him a small smile. "It's going to take more than a few bullets to kill me. You should know that, Barton."

Clint smirked. "How many of us are left?"

"More than we thought, thanks to you." The two began walking further from the others.

"What do you mean?"

"Coulson got a message. Be on alert. We are not alone. Jungle book. He was surprised you used the code word."

Clint smiled. "I figured he would know what's coming."

"Well, you did a good job. Your message gave Coulson an early enough warning to prepare for Hydra. They never saw it coming."

"Good. What's the plan now?"

"Nothing has changed. Since SHIELD is still standing, we just have to rebuild the Triskelion. And replace the agents that were Hydra. While the Triskelion gets rebuilt, SHIELD operations will be done through the base in London."

"Wasn't that facility shut down?"

"Yes, but I'm getting it back up and running. I could use some help. I want someone I can trust with me."

"What about Hill?"

"She's taking a job with Stark. Rogers decided to make the Avengers independent of SHIELD. I need someone on the inside besides you."

"Coulson?" The two stopped walking.

"Taking care of the rest of Hydra, including Ward."

"Ward is Hydra? I knew I didn't like him"

"That's why we need to get the London base operational. Coulson needs help. I want you with me, Barton. I won't order you to come though. Romanov has decided to devote more time to the Avengers. I won't blame you if you decide to leave SHIELD."

Clint turned to look at the group. Sam was obviously telling a story from Baghdad. Yelena turned her head to look at Clint. Their eyes locked. She smiled and nodded to him. Clint smiled back at her before looking at Fury.

"Are you still director", Clint asked. He reached into his pocket.

"I am, but only my friends know I'm still alive right now."

Clint pulled out the key he got from Fury's office. "Are we going to need this?"

"We will", Fury said, taking the key.

"What is it for?"

"The tools to rebuild. The world has lost faith in SHIELD. We need to show them that they can trust us again."

"Yes, Sir". The two men began walking.

Notes:

It would have been amazing if we got to see Hawkeye in Captain America The Winter Soldeir. Too bad there were scheduling conflicts.

If anyone is wondering where the connection between Sam and Clint is coming from, the idea is from The Hurt Locker. A wonderful movie starring Jeremy Renner and Anthony Mackie. If you haven't seen it, I recommend watching it.

Chapter 15: The Start of Something Bigger (Part 1)

It's been three months since Hydra tried to take over SHIELD. By some miracle, the organization is still standing. Most of the facilities belonging to SHIELD are also still standing. The Triskelion, now being reconstructed, is the only building that was heavily damaged.

Most of Hydra has been taken down. Their remnants are in small factions around the world. Coulson and his team has been tasked with finding the remaining Hydra agents. The Avengers, primarily Steve and Natasha, are helping when they can.

A Helicarrier going through SHIELDs main base means they have to use other secret bases that still exist. Coulson is leading the hunt from an old SSR base in an unknown location. The Avengers are operating out of their new tower in New York.

The SHIELD agents not in the old SSR base are assigned to wherever Coulson assigns them. Fury gave him authority over SHIELD until he gets back from a deep cover operation he is performing on his own. The only agents Coulson could not touch are Clint and Yelena. They've already been given their orders by Fury.

He ordered them to stay in the vicinity of New York and D.C. Clint has to stay close in case he's needed by the Avengers or if he finds something in connection to Poseidon's Blood. Yelena just wanted to stay close to Clint and Natasha.

Clint woke up to the sun shining through the windows of his bedroom. He rubbed his eyes and blinked a few times. He threw the sheets off him and went to the kitchen for coffee. Yelena had gone to New York and is staying in the Avengers Tower with her sister. She wanted a break from their job and D.C. And probably him.

He had two cups of coffee, showered, and drove to the Triskelion. Most agents, including Coulson's team, didn't know why he was ordered to stay in D.C. They all think he would be more effective with hunting Hydra. As true as that is, he could not. Coulson is the only one who knows his real purpose in D.C. When Clint and Fury got back from London, before Fury went off the grid, he ordered Clint to retrieve the files and more secret objects from the storage rooms in the lower levels. The vulnerability of the Triskelion means enemies have the perfect opportunity to take what they want.

Clint walked to the lower levels. Most of the damage was contained to the upper levels and the hangers for the Insight Carriers. He didn't have much to worry about in the way of debris; just the building shaking heavily and everything falling. He really hopes that the construction workers know what they're doing. When he got down to the third storage floor he was working on, he saw files and containers everywhere. He let out an exasperated sigh.

Over the course of the three months, he cleared the other two floors above him. Fury said to take priority when looking at the files and objects in the containers. One of the containers he has to look for is the one with the suit inside. That was the first container he looked for upon arriving. The suit and GHOST files take priority. In his mind they do anyway.

Clint walked through the hall of the floor. He stepped on small pieces of the broken walls and ceiling and over pieces of paper. When he got to the room that had the container with the suit,, he walked in. It was quite a mess; just like every room he's been in for the past three months. Clint wandered around the room, moving fallen containers to the side. He found the one with the suit. He opened it to examine the contents. The whole suit plus the hilt were inside.

"At least that secret is safe", he muttered.

He left the room, carrying the container. He'd be back to look at everything but he has to get the files about GHOST first. Clint walked to a room a few doors down the hallway. The door became damaged during the excursion so he walked right into the room.

It's a dark and dusty room. SHIELD hasn't had much use for the file room ever since they started digitizing mission files, personnel files, and every other file from the 80s onward. Clint walked to the back of the room where the most recent paper records were held. Most recent being 1979.

After he and Natasha had gotten back from J-bad with a hard drive containing GHOST contents, Clint managed to convince Fury to let him hard copy every GHOST and SHADOW file they have. He had to ensure the safety and security of the people involved and those who could be harmed by those files. Clint couldn't believe that it's been 4 years since this all started. A long way he's come since being attacked in his apartment.

He stepped over boxes of old records that had fallen on the floor. He got to the section he knew his files were placed. Clint checked the number on each box, looking for the one he needed.

"31, 32, 33, 34. There they are."

He grabbed box A.0364234. Then he grabbed the one below it, A.0364235. Taking off the lids to both, he examined them. He is the only one in the world who knows each individual file in each box. So, he will know if something is missing or not.

Clint was relieved to see that nothing was missing from either box. He put the file boxes on top of the container with the suit and lifted them up. He placed them at the door of the staircase. He went back to the room with containers of different objects and weaponry SHIELD has taken possession of over the years, some objects include 0-8-4s.

Clint felt a buzzing in his pocket. It was probably Fury calling to get an update on everything. He grabbed it out and saw Natasha's name. He smiled and put it on speaker.

"Hey, Tasha", he said, placing the phone on a shelf.

"Hey, Clint. What are you up to?"

"The usual", he said lifting a box and setting it aside. "Being Fury's janitor. Only this time, I'm actually cleaning up his mess."

She laughed. "Which floor?"

"The 'dangerous shit that needs to be destroyed' floor."

"Oh, the fun floor."

Clint laughed. "Yep. He doesn't trust anyone else with this stuff."

"And you don't have the clearance to see some of those things."

Clint laughed again. "Nope. I'm excited to see everyone's secrets."

"Only you, Barton. Only you."

Clint chuckled. "How's Lena?"

"She's good...For the most part."

"For the most part? What does that mean?"

"She's been...sick."

"Sick?"

"Yeah. Fatigue, puking in the mornings, and loss of appetite."

Clint quirked his brow while looking through a box. "That's odd. She didn't seem sick when she left."

"Yeah, that's what she said. I'm helping her but she may head back to D.C sooner than planned. I may come too."

"Alright. Let me know if you two come back."

"Will do, Clint."

They talked a little bit more before hanging up. Clint got back to looking through the containers and files. His mind occasionally wandering to Yelena. She must not be reacting well to being sick. Being ill was considered a huge weakness in the Red Room. Even though she knows SHIELD doesn't consider that as a weakness, she might still think of it as one.

Hours passed and Clint had successfully sorted through what he assumed was 21% of everything on that floor. He had a large pile of boxes and containers by the door to the stairs. Now he gets to take those boxes and containers to one of the ten storage lockers Fury had told him about.

Clint put the first load in his SUV and took them to the storage locker. He went back to the Triskelion to get the second load. Then the third. To end it, the fourth load. Clint arrived at the storage locker and put everything inside it. He still has to finish the rest of the things in the floor, but what he had done is a good end to the day. The other two floors he had completely finished took him three months in total. This floor may take time.

He set the last three boxes, the ones he gave highest priority, down on the ground. He was about to close the door when he looked at the boxes. Those boxes could bring so much damage to him and SHIELD. Clint walked back to the boxes and lifted them up. He placed them back in the SUV and drove away; making sure to close the door to the locker.

Clint drove to this apartment. By the time he had gotten the fourth load to the storage locker, it was late at night. Once he arrived, he brought the boxes to his apartment. Much to his belief, they were safer with him than in the storage locker. He can shoot whoever comes after them. Fury will understand. Right?

He set the boxes down on the floor of his living room. He checked his phone to see a message from Natasha. Yelena decided to come back early. She and Natasha will be arriving at a SHIELD facility, on the outskirts of D.C, in the morning. Clint replied before lifting a lid to one of the file boxes and grabbed one out.

He opened it and was instantly met with memories. Bad memories. The file was an old GHOST mission. One of the first ones too. Those early missions were hard because he wasn't used to doing that job yet. Clint threw the file onto the coffee table and rubbed his eyes with his hand. He hates looking at these, but why does he feel a need to look?

Clint put the file back into the box. He lifted the three and brought them into his bedroom. He put them in his closet and went right to his bed, stripping most of his clothes off. Once his head touched the pillow, he was out. It felt spectacular to instantly fall asleep.

When Clint woke up the next morning, he was actually well rested. A rare feeling for him because he doesn't sleep decent hours, ever. He ate breakfast, showered, and put on civilian clothes. No work means no need for a uniform. Another rare occasion for him, but a great one none the less.

He drove to the SHIELD facility. He smiled when he saw a quinjet land on the only landing pad the facility has. Clint got out of his SUV and walked toward the lowering ramp. He was instantly greeted by arms wrapping tight around his neck. He happily reciprocated the hug from the blonde woman. She unwrapped her arms from around Clint to give Natasha a chance to hug him.

"It's good to see you guys. How are you feeling", he asked turning to Yelena.

"I'm feeling okay right now."

"She woke up puking", Natasha said.

Clint looked at Yelena. "Seriously?"

Yelena gave him a small smile and nodded.

"I said she should get checked out at the Tower but she didn't want Tony making any inappropriate jokes. So I said a hospital. She wants your opinion."

"Good choice not being checked at the tower, but I do think you should get checked out. Just so we know what's happening."

She looked between the two. "Fine", she said in a very annoyed tone after a minute of silence.

The drive to the hospital was very active. Yelena and Natasha told Clint all about what they did in New York City. They told him about the different touristy places they visited and the restaurants they had eaten at. Clint was impressed with how much they pulled off in two weeks. He smiled at how excited Yelena sounded when telling her stories. She wasn't able to do a whole lot of civilian things after graduation. She was soon sent on missions, and like he and Natasha, the missions were almost non-stop.

The hospital was not that busy, so they got a room pretty quickly. Yelena kept protesting that it was unnecessary for them to be there. He was right, the Red Room teachings are still in her head.

"How are the others", Clint asked Natasha. Yelena was with the doctor being checked out.

"They're good. I think Steve is proud of his decision to separate the Avengers from SHIELD."

"Can't blame him. What about you? Are we ever going to see you in the SHIELD uniform again?"

Natasha smiled weakly at him. "I don't know. When you recruited us to SHIELD, you tried to warn us that we would be doing the same thing as in the Red Room. The only difference is that we would be pointed at the right targets." She clenched her fist. "Becoming a killer for Hydra was hard for me to accept. I guess I'm still trying to accept it."

Clint reached his hand to grab her own. "That's understandable, Nat. As long as you're happy with what you're doing, I don't care where you're working."

Natasha's smile grew. "Thanks, Clint. That means a lot. And you? Like being Fury's personal puppet?"

"I'm used to it", he said before laughing causing her to laugh.

Clint's phone started buzzing in his pocket. He grabbed it out to see 'Restricted' on the caller ID. He gave Natasha a confused look and walked out of the room. When he walked back in, Natasha gave him a concerned look.

"What is it", Natasha asked. "Coulson? Fury?"

Clint shook his head. "No, it was Secretary Ross."

"Thunderbolt Ross? The guy who took Peirce's job?"

"That's him. He says he needs my help."

"With what?"

"He wouldn't say over the phone. He just told me the location."

"Where's that?"

"The Capitol Building." Natasha's eyes widened. "Yeah. Doesn't sound good if it's outside that building and he's calling me."

"Then you better go. Yelena and I will be fine."

Clint nodded.

He drove through the streets of D.C to the Capitol. If he was being honest, he's a bit nervous. Clint hasn't had the pleasure of meeting the new Secretary yet. This is not how he wanted to meet the man. Clint was shocked when he arrived at the scene. A police barricade, capitol police, metro PD, and men in suits were all walking around three black SUVs.

Clint showed his badge to a few police and they let him through the barricade. He looked at the tarp covered bodies and the holes that covered the three vehicles. He saw Secretary Ross talking to someone in a suit. The other guy looked familiar but he can't remember why.

"Mr. Secretary", Clint said.

"Agent Barton, thank you for coming. This is Senator Laurie."

"Senator", Clint said to the other man.

"Thank you for coming, Agent Barton", the Senator said shaking Clint's hand.

"What is this about", Clint asked.

"All of this", the Senator replied.

Clint looked at the three SUVs. "You called me because your security was killed by crazy gunmen?"

"If it were any ordinary people with guns who did it, I would the authorities handle it. This threat was different."

"Let me guess, you were attacked by men in full tactical gear and technologically advanced assault rifles?"

"Exactly. How did you know?"

"These bullet holes." Clint looked at the holes in the SUV. "They're still warm. No brass. And their expertise and training means that your security couldn't get a shot off."

The Senator smiled. "Impressive."

"Does your knowledge on these men mean you know who attacked the Senator", Ross asked. "And why?"

"SHIELD has been looking for these men for 4 years, Sir. As to why, I cannot say. Attacking a politician is new territory for them. Their center of attacks is normally me."

"Perhaps you still are", the Senator said.

Clint quirked his brow. "What do you mean?"

"One week ago, I put a bill on the floor of the Senate called the Sword and Shield Defense Bill. It's the only bill that stands a chance at keeping SHIELD operational."

"And they threaten you to intimidate you?"

The Senator shook his head. "Yes. If this bill doesn't pass, SHIELD will permanently be shut down."

"That aligns with Blood's agenda", Clint said quietly.

"Blood", Ross asked.

"Poseidon's Blood. They've been responsible for multiple attacks around the world over the past seven years. They're the ones who attacked. Any chance you have video of the attack?"

"Each SUV is equipped with cameras on all sides. I'll get you the footage."

"The Capitol Building's cameras were pointed to the street. They must have gotten something too", Ross said.

"Good. Have the footage sent to Phil Coulson. He knows what to do with it."

"Thank you again, Agent Barton", the Senator said.

"You're welcome, Sir", Clint said shaking his hand.

Clint walked back to his SUV. Before he got into it, he turned around to face the scene one more time. The attack on the man responsible for the bill makes sense but it can't be their new plan. They always have something bigger in store. He got back into his SUV and drove back to the hospital.

* * * * * * *

"Alright, Ms. Belova", the doctor said entering the room. "After a few tests, I can definitively say that you are perfectly healthy."

Yelena smiled. She turned her head to look at Natasha. "I told you and Clint I was fine."

Natasha smiled back. "We just wanted to make sure."

"Well, she is. She and the baby are just fine."

Both their smiles faded and became looks of shock and surprise. They both looked at the doctor.

"The baby", Yelena asked. "I'm...uh...I'm preg...I'm pregnant?"

The doctor's smile faded slightly. "You didn't know?" Yelena shook her head, unable to speak. "I'm sorry. I was under the impression that you were here to make sure that whatever was going on didn't effect the fetus."

Yelena began to breathe faster and faster. Natasha was instantly next to her and took her sister's hands in her own. "Hey, breathe." The two kept eye contact. "Breathe in." Yelena breathed in like Natasha. "Out." They both exhaled. "You're okay." Yelena nodded. Natasha turned to look at the doctor. "How far along is she?"

The doctor looked at her clipboard. "Ten weeks."

"Thank you", Natasha said.

The doctor nodded. "You're welcome and congratulations." She walked out of the room.

Natasha looked at Yelena. She could see her sister was so close to crying. Natasha wrapped her arms around Yelena and pulled her close. "You're okay."

Yelena broke down in her sister's arms. "No, I'm not", she managed to say.

"Yeah, you are", Natasha said quietly.

Natasha let Yelena cry in her arms for the next few minutes.

"Do you know how this is possible", Natasha asked.

"No", she replied. Yelena looked down and placed a hand on her belly. Then she saw the necklace. The necklace that was given to her by Mara in Spain. Her eyes widened. "The 0-8-4."

"What 0-8-4?"

"The 0-8-4 I helped Coulson's team get in Spain. They called it the healer. It repairs the body completely."

"You said that Jemma Simmons examined you after you guys got to the Bus. She would have noticed."

"No she would not have. I never told her about the ceremony. She never would have known what to look for when examining me."

"Okay. That makes sense."

"What am I going to do, Natasha?"

"First, you're not alone in this. You have me and Clint. Second, don't think too much into it right now. For now, just take the time to wrap your head around the news. I know I'm going to have to do that."

Yelena laughed lightly. Then she looked up. "Oh my god...Clint. What am I going to say? What is he going to say?"

"You might want to figure it out fast. He's on his way back from the Capitol", she said looking at her phone. "He says he got a message from Coulson. They found something we have to see."

"Don't tell him."

"What", Natasha asked with a small smile.

"Do not tell Clint. I need to get this figured out on my own first."

"Whatever you want", she said. Natasha leaned her head against Yelena's own. "You're going to be okay." Yelena nodded her head; tears still flowing down her face.

Clint picked the two females up at the entrance of the hospital. The distance between the Capitol and the hospital gave Yelena enough time to fix herself up. They went to the SSR base Coulson was using as his base of operations, the Playground.

LOCATION: Classified
TIME: 14:03

The three of them walked through the large metal door of the Playground. They saw agents walking around, talking, carrying gear, and working on computers and tablets. Clint had already seen the base but Natasha and Yelena were amazed at the sight.

"This used to be an SSR bunker. When Fury found it, he turned it into one of SHIELDs most advanced operations bases", Clint said.

"Should I be surprised you knew about this place", Coulson asked. "Before I did, probably."

Clint smiled at the man. "Nope." He hugged him. "It's good to see you, Coulson."

"I'm glad to see you too, Barton. You two also."

"Thanks", Natasha said sarcastically.

Yelena smiled and rolled her eyes.

"I would love to give you guys a tour but this is something you are going to want to see."

The three followed Coulson. They walked past a large lab. They saw a few scientists working, then they passed a gym/training area. To top it off, Coulson walked into a kitchen/living area. The three saw Coulson's team plus a few additions talking.

"Barton, Romanov, Belova, this is Agent Antoine Triplett and Agent Al Mackenzie. And you already know Hunter and Bobbi."

Yelena perked up at the mention of her two friends. They smiled when they saw her. The two hugged her.

Clint smiled at the three before focusing on the agent walking toward him. "Agent Triplett, it's nice to meet you."

"You too, Agent Barton. I must say I was excited when Coulson said you were coming. I've been wanting to meet you for a while."

Clint laughed. "Believe me, I'm not much to get excited about. Just ask May."

Tripp laughed. "That's your opinion."

"Why did you call us anyway, Coulson", Natasha asked. "Not that I'm not happy to see any of you."

The mood instantly changed. Clint, Yelena, and Natasha took notice of everyone's serious faces.

"I called you here because of this", Coulson said. He handed Natasha a tablet. Yelena and Clint looked over her shoulder.

"Oh my god", Yelena muttered. "I know her."

"You do", Clint asked.

"Clint", Natasha started. "She used to be a Black Widow. She helped to make the mid control they used on Yelena."

Clint looked at the two Widows. "When did this happen", Clint asked looking at Coulson.

"Yesterday", Skye said. "When we got wind of it, Coulson said it matched similar Widow killings SHIELD has dealt with, that's why he knew to call you."

Clint heard whispering between the sisters. He recognized that they were talking in Russian. Natasha zoomed in on the dead female's body. Yelena closed her eyes and sighed.

"What is it, Lena", Clint asked.

"The weapon that killed her; it's a long distance sniper rifle used only by agents of the Red Room", Yelena replied.

Clint sighed. "How is that even possible?" He saw the defeated looks on both their faces. "Does it mean he's still alive?"

"That's what I was thinking", Coulson said.

"The Red Room would've fallen with his death", Natasha said.

"I pressed the button myself. All three of us saw that building get blown to hell. With him in it."

"Who", Bobbi asked.

"General Dreykov", Yelena gritted through her teeth.

"Witnesses said that she was carrying a black case before being killed. Whoever did it was quick and took the case", May said.

"Definitely a Black Widow operation", Natasha said.

"No doubt about it", Yelena said.

"Does that mean we have a chance to take it down for good", Bobbi asked.

"It does", Coulson replied.

"No it doesn't", Natasha said. Everyone looked at her. "We're not involving SHIELD. Or the Avengers."

"This is our fight", Yelena said. She looked at Clint. "And ours alone."

Clint nodded. "You two sure?" They both looked at him and nodded. "Okay." He turned and sat on a chair next to a table.

"You're not going to try and stop them", Hunter asked. "Or at least convince them to let SHIELD help?"

"Nope. I've lost many arguments against them. I won't stop them from this."

"Where are you going to start", Mack asked. "Coulson said that the Red Room is difficult to find."

Natasha looked at Yelena. "He may know where Dreykov is."

Yelena sighed. "Yeah, probably." She looked at Clint. "You think you can get us a location on someone?"

Clint smiled. "Just give me a name."

"How are you going to get there", May asked.

"A quinjet", Natasha asked.

"Not a good idea", Clint said. "SHIELD isn't welcome anywhere outside the United States right now."

"It's a cloaked jet", Trip said.

"Doesn't matter, but it can get you into the forestland in Europe. Once there, you can meet up with someone who owes me a favor", he said looking at Natasha.

"The PC?"

Clint nodded. "I can call him, and by the time you two get there, you'll have new transportation."

"Is this PC reliable", Yelena asked.

"Very. He has helped me and Natasha get out of countries when SHIELD couldn't. He's also a little sensitive, so be careful with what you say, Lena."

Yelena stuck her tongue out at him.

"I'll get your jet ready", May said.

Ten minutes later, the Widows were preparing to leave. Yelena was saying bye to Hunter and Bobbi and Natasha was talking to Coulson. He was making it clear what would happen if they didn't bring the quinjet back. Clint walked over to her after Coulson finished talking.

"Here it is", he said handing her a file.

She opened it and read through it all. She closed it and looked at Clint. "Thank you."

"Who is this guy?"

Natasha turned to look at Yelena. "Do you remember what I told you about Ohio?"

"Yeah."

"Well, this guy's cover was our father."

Clint's eyes widened. "Oh."

She smiled at him. "Yeah. This will be interesting."

Clint smiled and brought her in for a hug. "Be careful, okay?"

Natasha nodded. "I will."

When they released, Clint's eyes landed on Yelena. "I don't like her doing this while she's sick."

Natasha smirked. "She's fine, Clint. They gave her medication."

Clint smiled at her. He gave Natasha one last hug before walking over to Yelena. He wrapped his arms around her. She wrapped her arms around his neck and melted into his touch. She felt him place a soft kiss on her head. She smiled and nuzzled her head closer to him.

"Please be careful", he whispered.

"I promise", she whispered back.

She kissed his cheek before separating. Clint watched them walk up the ramp of the quinjet. As much as he hated the idea of them doing it alone, he knew it was the right choice. Yelena was right, it's their fight. And only their fight.

Notes:

The story is getting closer to Avengers Age of Ultron. Please comment yes or no if you want me to write that chapter. Also, just to clarify, this story WILL change a lot of AoS. Bobbi and Mack are NOT traitors and there is no real SHIELD.

Chapter 16: The Start of Something Bigger (Part 2)

Notes:

I am sure you all were surprised by the big surprise in the previous chapter. I just want to say that I wanted to do something fresh and new.

Skye walked up next to Clint in the hanger. "Coulson told me about the Blood attack. Are we going to go hunting?"

"Not today, Skye". The two started walking out of the hanger. "Did he tell you anything else?"

"Yeah. They attacked a Senator."

Clint nodded. "I need to talk to him alone first. Then we can discuss the attack."

Skye nodded. "Whatever you say, Hawkeye."

Clint and Skye got to the common area. He walked up the stairs to Coulson's office. Coulson was staring at the screen, looking at photos of the Capitol attack when Clint walked in.

"Why would Blood attack a Senator?"

"You don't know", Clint asked very surprised. Coulson looked at Clint and shook his head. "Coulson, that Senator means something to SHIELD."

"What is it?"

"The Sword and Shield Defense Bill."

"I've never heard of that."

"It's the bill that will decided the fate of SHIELD and every person who works for it. He's the senator who put it on the floor. They intimidate him, he backs out, every other supporter may back out too."

"Makes sense."

"Did you get the camera footage from Secretary Ross?"

"Yeah", Coulson said nodding his head.

Coulson walked over to this desk and played the video. They watched the SUVs drive to the security gate of the Capitol Building. Suddenly the two guards at the gate fell to the ground. Then a truck pulled in behind the SUVs to keep them from leaving.

Men in advanced armor/tactical gear exited the truck. Men from the first and third SUVs exited but they all got killed before they could fire a shot. The men in the second SUV exited but were also quickly killed.

One of the tactical agents pulled the Senator out of the second SUV. He threw him on the ground. The cameras didn't catch what was being said but Clint and Coulson could tell they were threatening him. The agent yelled for a few more seconds before leaving. All the agents got into the truck and drove away.

"Wow", Coulson muttered.

"Not what I was expecting either."

"We have to find that truck", Coulson said replaying the video.

Clint stared at the video. "Go back." Coulson reversed the video until one of the agents was in full view. "There, you see that?"

Coulson stepped toward the screen and examined the agent. "Phase One SHADOW armor?"

Clint nodded. "Yep."

"Shit. That is not good."

"Nope", Clint said shaking his head. "But it makes sense now."

"What does?"

"Do you remember the labs and warehouses that Blood blew up with TATP?"

"Yeah", Coulson said nodding slowly.

"Before I got all the information from the power plant in Haiti, I was trying to figure out the purpose of the targets of their bombs."

Coulson nodded. "Fury told me."

"When I was looking at them separately, I didn't see a connection. Each lab and warehouse had a different purpose. A purpose that I couldn't understand. Now that I see they have Phase One, it makes sense. Separately, they don't go together. Put all the materials from each together, and you have the strongest armor any operative has ever worn."

"I remember some of those labs. A few had defense contracts with the government, didn't they?"

"Yeah, that's why Blood knew they would have what they needed to make the armor."

"You think they can make Phase Two?"

Clint shook his head. "Not anytime soon, but that's not my concern."

"What is then because this is very concerning."

"If Phase One is complete then that means the suit must also be finished."

Coulson's eyes widened. "SHADOW is becoming a reality."

Clint nodded.

"We have to inform Fury."

"You've been in contact with him?"

"Very little. Whatever he's doing is really keeping him in the dark from us."

Clint nodded. "I'll look at the Blood information I have saved. Maybe I can find something that will help us."

"You sure? You said it yourself, they attack then disappear. They may be in the dark until the vote on the bill is complete."

"Which will give me enough time to look into them. Especially if I have some help."

"Skye?"

"She's the best person I know on a keyboard."

"Are you going to involve the Avengers? I heard that Steve doesn't respond well to being lied to."

"No, he doesn't. This is a SHIELD matter. My hope is that it stays that way."

"With your luck?"

Clint smiled slightly and rolled his eyes. He walked over to one of the chairs against the wall and sat down. Coulson could see a familiar look on his face. "None of this is your fault, Clint. None of it."

Clint clenched his fist. "Nope, I'm just the one in the center of it. Every advancement they make in their plan doesn't lead back to SHIELD, Coulson. It leads back to me. Especially if it involves SHADOW."

"Barton, look at me." Clint slowly looked up at Coulson. "All of this is not your fault. The only person to blame is Valentina. She has been running things from the shadows since before you were attacked in your apartment."

"Really wish I could believe you, Coulson. GHOST and SHADOW being revealed more and more is my fault because I am at the center of both projects."

"So is SHIELD. This isn't your fight alone, Clint. It's ours. Together. We'll find Val and take her down as a team."

"Even if that happens, you can't guarantee that the truth won't come out."

"You're right, I can't. What I can guarantee is that if the truth comes out, we're all gonna face it. And besides, the truth has been revealed to the people who you wanted to know."

"Not all of it", Clint said. "They don't SHADOW. You, me, and Fury are the only people that know."

"Are you worried about how everyone will react to SHADOW or to GHOST?"

Clint laughed hysterically. "I don't know, Coulson. Both are dangerous. Both effect me. Both will change the way everyone looks at me. How am I supposed to face that", he yelled.

"By standing your ground. And I'll be behind you the whole time."

Clint calmed down. "Thanks, Coulson", he said after taking a few breaths.

Coulson nodded to him.

Clint drove back to D.C an hour later. He had to finish the job Fury tasked him with. Clint walked down the stairs of the Triskelion to the floor he was working in the day before. He spent the next five hours going through files and containers.

Once he finished another section of the floor, he brought it to his SUV. Like the day before, he had to make more than one trip to the storage locker. It only had to be three this time instead of four. He drove back to his apartment and went right to bed.

The next day, Clint drove back to the Playground. He and Skye had a small "office" setup on the common area table. He made sure to bring the jump drive with all of the Poseidon's Blood information on it. He was glad that he was actually thinking when he saved everything to a jump drive. It was all sorted out the same way as the paper copies had been in his now destroyed office.

He and Skye spent the next few hours going through everything on Poseidon's Blood. He gave her different locations and people to search. Mack, Bobbi, and Hunter eventually asked them what they were doing. Clint forgot that they weren't informed about Poseidon's Blood.

An hour later, Clint was standing in their kitchen area with a cup of coffee. Skye had been called to a mission, leaving him alone to do the research. His mind wandered to Natasha and Yelena. He hoped they were doing okay.

Clint looked around the room and noticed he was alone. Apparently he was so engrossed in his work, that he didn't notice everyone leave. Clint walked over to the TV and turned it on to the news.

He was watching an interview about Senator Laurie not changing his mind about the bill. Clint huffed out a laugh. He knew the Senator wouldn't change his mind. The interview also said something about the vote about the bill being moved to today because of the attack. He laughed again. Poseidon's Blood won't be taking that well.

Clint's eyes widened at the sudden realization. Blood won't take that well. The bill won't pass if the man who proposed it is killed before he gets to the Capitol. The news anchor then said the vote is in three hours. That's all Clint had to hear before running out of the base.

He quickly drove back to D.C. He thinks he actually broke the speedometer. Clint took sharp turns, cut other drivers off, and even drove in the lane going in the opposite direction. Four miles away from the Capitol, Clint saw the Senator's SUVs being followed by a large truck. The same truck that attacked the Senator.

He sped up and made a hard right. He lowered the driver side window, grabbed an arrow from the quiver in the passenger seat, and threw it at the back right tire of the truck. Clint then hit the breaks. Hard. The back tire blew and the truck swerved. Once it stopped, Clint grabbed his bow and fired an arrow at the latch on the loading door. The arrow expanded a hard jell like substance that kept it from opening. The guys in the back tried to pull it up but it wouldn't give.

The two agents in the front got out and walked toward Clint. The traffic behind Clint had stopped completely. He heard the faint sound of sirens getting louder. The agents looked at Clint then at each other. They dropped their guns and walked toward him.

He smirked at them. "You two should've kept those."

They ran at him. Clint dodged the punch coming from the first guy. He kicked the second guy in the chest. He stumbled back. The first guy threw a punch again. Clint caught his fist, twisted it, and kicked his leg out from under him. Clint brought his knee up to meet the man's face.

The second guy got back up. He grabbed out his knife and ran at Clint. He dodged the hit. Clint punched him in the chest. It hurt Clint more than the agent. Phase One armor is no joke. He caught the hand holding the knife. Clint swung one leg over the guy's head to wrap around the back of his neck. He flipped them over and they rolled. The man's head hit the road with so much force that it knocked him out.

Clint got up and looked around at the crowds of people. Before he could take a breath, the sound of metal bursting tore through his ears. He looked at the truck to see holes being made by lasers. They are trying to shoot their way out.

All the spectators ducked down for cover from the gunfire. Clint ran back to his SUV. He grabbed one of his trick arrows and aimed at one of the thin holes in the truck. He fired it and went right through one of the holes. Clint heard a grunt. A grunt followed by a small blast wave. The truck shook and the shooting had stopped.

By then, metro PD arrived and focused on crowd control. A quinjet hovered over the scene. Two SHIELD SUVs drove onto the scene. Tactical agents exited and started to get inside the truck full of knocked out agents and one dead agent blown apart. Clint stood in the middle of the road. His bow in hand and his eyes on the people recording everything with their phones.

"Didn't think I would be thanking you two days in a row", the Senator said.

Clint turned to look at the man in the suit. "I didn't think they would be this reckless." Clint shook his hand. "Glad you're safe, Sir."

"Sir, thirty minutes till the vote", a guard said.

The Senator nodded. "Understood." The guard walked back to the SUVs. "Thank you again, Agent Barton."

"You're welcome, Sir." The Senator walked away. Clint turned to look at the two SHIELD tactical agents standing nearby. "You two go with the Senator. Get him to the Capitol safely."

"Yes Sir", they both said. They got into one of the SUVs and followed the Senator's convoy.

The sun was setting over the east coast. Clint was back at the Playground working on research with Skye. While she was helping him, she told him about their mission. Although, he was hardly listening to her. He didn't mean to be rude to her, but this work is too distracting.

"Guys", Mack said coming into the common area. "You're going to want to see this."

The two agents followed Mack up the stairs to Coulson's office. They walked in and saw the group huddled around Coulson's screen. It's on the news with the headline 'SHIELD REMAINS AS DEFENSE ORGANIZATION'.

"The Sword and Shield Defense bill was passed", Coulson said.

Senator Laurie started speaking to the cameras. "Yes, today is a good day for our nation's defense. With this bill, SHIELD is still a sanctioned department of the U.S government."

"Sir", a reporter yelled. "Is it true you were almost killed on your way here?"

"Yes, it is true."

"And that did not change your mind?"

"No. The only reason I was able to vote on the bill today was because of the brave actions performed by a SHIELD agent. If it wasn't for him, those terrorists would've killed me. This is proof that SHIELD has heroes. That agent is a hero."

Reporters continued to ask him questions but Coulson turned the screen off.

Everyone looked at Clint. He was staring at the blank wall. Skye placed a hand on his shoulder before walking out. The other did the same. A few giving him words of praise. The only person left in the room walked over to Clint. He put a hand on his shoulder but didn't walk out.

"Look at that, Clint. You saved SHIELD."

Clint gave him a weak smile. "Nope. I just helped the man who saved SHIELD."

"Yelena was right, you never give yourself enough credit."

"I was trained to not do that, Hunter."

"You deserve it anyway." Hunter then walked out of the room.

It was late at night and Clint was still at the Playground. He was sitting in the common area doing research on Blood and filling out a report about the day's events. He also had the news playing on the TV. Clint was listening to any news about the bill being passed. The attacks on the Senator made him want to find Valentina all the more so something like this doesn't happen again.

"What are you still doing here", May asked.

Clint looked at the woman. "I'm doing work."

"Don't be smart. What are you actually doing here?"

Clint stared at the computer for a moment. "I'm trying to force myself to live with what's happening."

May quirked her brow. She walked over to the table and sat opposite him. "What do you mean, Clint?"

"I mean that Blood is forcing me to face my past." He shook his head slowly. "A past I am trying to forget."

"How's that been going?"

"Not well, May." He took a a brief pause. "For the past couple of years, I've been seeing him."

"Who?"

"The Ghost."

May's expression changed from serious to concern. "Clint..."

Clint rubbed his eyes. "One night, it got so bad I punched my bathroom mirror. It finally forced me to tell Yelena the truth."

"What has he been doing?"

"Talking. He's been saying that he's the one in control." Clint felt tears start to well in his eyes. His voice started to break. "I thought I could control him. For a year and a half, it was just me. A year and a half, May! Then the fight and hunt for Blood began. Memories of what I did started pouring into my head and there was nothing I could do to stop it. I was able to keep him at bay until Loki took control."

"What did he do to you?"

"Broke the Ghost free." Clint knew there is no holding it back now. Once the first tear fell, he let them all fall. "Since New York, I've been having nightmares about what I've done. He shows up out of nowhere. He starts talking and convincing me I'm losing control. The problem is...he's right." Clint clenched his fist till his knuckles turned white. "I've been looking at the suit every now and then; hoping it would bring some kind of peace but it doesn't." Clint wiped his fallen tears with his hand.

May's heart broke for the man she values highly. The man who has shown her love and respect ever since he started in the academy. She understood all too well what he's going through. The only difference is that Bahrain was a one time event. Clint has been suffering the pain for years because he did the same terrible thing for years.

"For six years I've worn that damn suit. For six years I've killed. Slaughtered. I've shed so much blood. Why do people call me a hero? How can they call me a hero with all that I've done? How can people with good hearts be around someone who doesn't have one? How May? How?"

That broke May. She knew he was suffering but not to this extent. She felt her own eyes well with tears. He still had tears falling. May reached over the table to grab Clint's hand in her own. She squeezed it.

"I'm so sorry, Clint. I wish there was something I could do to help."

"I've taken so many lives. Innocent lives. All because I couldn't leave any witnesses." Clint gulped, holding back a sob. "All I want is to forget. This fight with Blood is keeping me from doing that." Clint paused for a moment. "Sometimes I wonder what would happen if I gave the investigation to someone else. I wonder what pain I could spare myself from."

May nodded. "Maybe you should for a while."

Clint smiled weakly. "I wish it was that easy."

"You don't want to give it up, do you?"

Clint shook his head. "I started it. I'm going to end it."

"Even if the nightmares and visions of the Ghost continue?"

"I may have to take that risk."

"What if the people that care about you say otherwise?"

"Then they'll have to learn to live with it. It's who I am, May."

May smiled at him. "Well, you know we have your back. Even if it's just to talk."

Clint smiled back. "Thanks, Mel."

"You just had to ruin the moment, didn't you", May asked wiping the single tear that fell.

Clint started to laugh lightly causing May to start to laugh too.

May looked at the TV screen. "Wow."

Clint turned his head and his eyes widened.

The two agents stood and walked toward it. The news had changed from reporters on the bill to an unknown space craft that crashed in Europe. A space craft is what they're calling it, but it did not look that way. Advanced technology, yes. Built for space, no.

"They did it", Clint said with a smile.

"What?"

"The sisters. They destroyed the Red Room."

"How do you know that's the Red Room?"

"I just know." The smile on his face never fading.

Clint ended up spending the night at the Playground. They had some living quarters left to spare so he took one of those rooms. He ended up having a nightmare just as he expected. Only this one was less intense than previous ones.

He woke up the next morning earlier than he was expecting. Clint walked to the common area to see Skye, Fitz, Jemma, Mack, and Tripp all talking. They all stopped when he walked into the room. They silently watched him get a cup of coffee. They all looked at each other with questionable looks. Clint walked to the table and sat down with his back facing them.

"If you guys have something to say, just say it", he said.

They all looked at each other again. "We didn't know you were here", Skye said.

"I'm a spy. 90% of my job revolves around you not knowing where I am."

"You set him up for than one", Jemma said. Skye nodded.

"Morning", Bobbi said walking into the area.

"Morning, Bobbi", Mack said.

Hunter walked in a few minutes later. Clint watched him for a few seconds before he started laughing. The talking group looked at him. Coulson and May walked down the stairs from Coulson's office.

"What are you laughing at", Bobbi asked. Clint was the only person in the room laughing.

"You two", he said looking at Bobbi and Hunter who were on opposite sides of the kitchen. He turned his back to them. "The untrained eye can't see it."

"See what", Coulson asked. May and Coulson, like everyone else, were looking at Bobbi and Hunter and Clint.

"Bobbi and Hunter spent the night together", Clint said before taking another sip of his coffee.

Everyone's eyes widened. They started blurting out questions.

"How did you know", Hunter asked when he shushed the group.

"It's not that hard. The disheveled clothes, their proximity to each other, the idiotic smiles on their faces when they walked in, and last but not least, the hickey on Bobbi's neck."

Bobbi's hand instantly covered her neck. No one knew what they were more shocked by, the news of Bobbi and Hunter or how Clint noticed all that in a few seconds.

"Damn", Mack said under his breath.

Clint started laughing at the shocked silence. His back still facing them.

"How did he do that", Fitz whispered.

"I don't know", Jemma whispered back.

"I'm trained to notice those things, Fitz."

"Okay, that's getting freaky", Skye said.

Clint smiled and laughed quietly.

They all looked up when they heard metal doors open. Clint got up from his chair and went to the hanger. Coulson and his team close behind them. They watched the quinjet land in the same place it took off from. The ramp of the jet lowered and the two sisters walked down.

Clint noticed that they were both wearing different suits. Natasha was wearing a black and gray suit and a gold belt. The Black Widow insignia was clear on the belt. Yelena was in a white tactical suit, a thigh holster, and her vest. That made him smile.

Hours Later...

Clint, Natasha, and Yelena returned to D.C around noon. They had left the Playground a little while after the Widows got back. After picking up lunch from a cafe the three enjoy, they went to Clint's apartment. The two started telling him about what had happened.

They told him about Melina and Alexi. That surprised Clint a little bit. Natasha talked about switching places with Melina to get close to Dreykov. She also talked about having to sever the nerve in her nose. Yelena talked about almost having her brain taken out for examination and being the one who killed Dreykov. What really caught Clint's attention was them talking about the Taskmaster.

"Did they actually call him the Taskmaster", he asked.

Yelena and Natasha looked at each other then at him. "Yeah", Natasha said.

"Why", Yelena asked.

Clint sighed. "Son of a bitch", he said quietly. He got up and went to his bedroom. They heard him going through something. He returned a minute later with a SHIELD file.

"Clint, why do you have a Level 10 security file", Yelena asked.

"There's something about GHOST Protocol I never told you."

"What is it", Natasha asked. Clint opened the file and placed it in front of them. "Oh my god."

"What is this", Yelena asked.

"This is Project SHADOW. Fury called it the first generation Project Insight."

Yelena grabbed two papers with different titles, 'Phase One' and 'Phase Two'. She also grabbed the schematics for advanced weaponry. Natasha grabbed the schematics for a suit. All the parts created the Taskmaster suit. She set those down and read the rest of the file.

"How does this connect to GHOST", Yelena asked.

"Because the Ghost would lead this team of advanced killers", Natasha said. "How come you didn't tell us?"

"I didn't think it would be a problem. The laser guns were the only problem until yesterday. Blood is on Phase One of the armor."

"How do they know about this project", Natasha asked.

"Valentina created the project when she worked for SHIELD."

"The Taskmaster was created by SHIELD", Yelena asked.

"The idea behind the suit was created by SHIELD. We had to wait for technology to catch up, but before that could happen, Valentina was "let go" and the Security Council shut down the project for being too destructive."

Natasha and Yelena became silent.

"I knew Blood was working on the suit. I thought we would've been able to get ahead of them before that would happen. This isn't how I wanted to tell you."

"Were you ever going to tell us", Yelena asked.

"In time."

The three didn't speak for a few minutes. During that time, Yelena and Natasha looked through the Project SHADOW file.

"It says that they were trying to make more agents like the Ghost", Natasha said. "How would they have done that?"

"When Valentina worked at SHIELD, she would always examine me. She would scan my brain, make me fight other agents, and make me explain the Ghost's train of thought."

"Why", Yelena asked.

"To learn how the Ghost thinks. How he fights. They wanted to know how I was able to do everything I can do. Using that information, she thought she could duplicate the Ghost into a suit. SHIELD would have had the most deadly team in the world packed into a few agents."

"Jesus", Natasha muttered.

"The fact that you two survived proves that the suit is incomplete. Did you destroy it?"

"No", Natasha replied.

"Nat, contact whoever has the suit and tell them to destroy it."

"You don't want it for examination", Yelena asked. "Don't you want to know how Dreykov got it?"

"I do wanna know, but I think Valentina is the answer. That suit is too dangerous to be operational."

"What if SHIELD wants it", Natasha asked. "Or the Avengers?"

"I don't give a fuck what they want. It's too dangerous to remain operational. So Nat, please call whoever and tell them to destroy the suit."

Natasha could see the pleading look in his eyes. She knows not much scares him but this does. "Okay", she said softly. She got up and grabbed her phone from the table. She looked at Yelena. "Tell him", she mouthed.

Yelena gave her a death stare while she walked out to the back bedroom. She looked at Clint who was reading the SHADOW file. "I have something to tell you." She stood.

Clint looked up at her. "Okay."

Yelena sat next to him on the couch. "Remember the 0-8-4 I touched in Spain?"

"Yeah, the one that restores the body. Even body parts." He looked at his arm. "However that works."

She smiled slightly. "And do you remember what Natasha and I said about the Red Room ceremony?"

"The sterilization ceremony?"

Yelena nodded. "The 0-8-4 fixed that."

"Okay", Clint said slowly.

Yelena closed her eyes and sighed. How was he not catching on? She grabbed his hands and squeezed them. "Clint...I'm pregnant."

"Oh...", Clint said. She watched the realization hit him. His eyes widened. His mouth opened to speak but nothing came out.

"I know this is not what you were expecting to hear, but I had to tell you."

"I...You...uh...What?" Yelena smiled at him again. "When...How long?"

"I found out when you took me to the hospital. The symptoms I was having were because I'm pregnant. According to the doctor, I'm ten weeks along."

Clint nodded slowly. Very slowly.

"I'm sorry I didn't tell you sooner."

Clint stood from the couch. Their hands losing contact when he did this. "It's uh...It's okay." He started pacing around the room while rubbing his eyes.

Yelena stood from her spot and walked over to him; stopping him in his tracks. "Clint, talk to me."

"I don't know what to say, Yelena", Clint said on the verge of yelling.

She wasn't shocked by his tone but rather the use of her name. Ever since they started hooking up, he would only call her by her full name at SHIELD. Knowing what would calm him down, she wrapped her arms around his body and settled her head under his chin. She felt him start to calm.

Clint slowly wrapped his arms around her. He took a deep breath. "What do you need me to do?"

"Be there for me, please. I don't know what I want to do."

He squeezed her a little tighter. "Whatever you need", he whispered.

She smiled when he pulled her closer. Something about this whole thing felt right. She felt Clint place a kiss on her head before rubbing her back.

"Whatever you need", he whispered one more time.

Notes:

Yes, I did speed up the events of Black Widow. I had to do it now because it introduces the Taskmaster into the story. And it explains how Natasha and Yelena get the batons they use throughout the rest of the story.

Chapter 17: Guilt

Three Days Later...

Clint yawned as he set another container full of dangerous objects down on the floor. His arms have felt like jelly for the past three months. The only break he got was during the assassination plot on the Senator.

The good thing about the bill being passed is that the government is aiding in the reconstruction of the Triskelion. Fury, with his lack of trust in the government, still wants all the files and containers cleared from the building.

Clint looked at the remaining files and objects left on the floor. It wasn't a whole lot but he still hates the thought of doing it. All the walks up and down the stairs were killing him. He let out an exasperated sigh before walking into the room of stacked files.

He walked over to a stack he created the day before. Opening the first file, he read through the contents. That was the only upside to doing this job; his unrestricted clearance. All these old projects and secrets are very damaging to SHIELD. He understands why Fury doesn't want anyone else's eyes on these.

When Fury told him to give the files and containers priority, he made it clear that highest priority meant most destructive to SHIELD and its agents. Going through the stack, he put the highest priority ones into a box. He placed the rest of the stack into boxes and put the boxes by the door to the staircase. The pile getting steadily bigger.

Clint brought the pile of boxes to his SUV and took them to the storage lockers. Once he got the rest of that pile into the storage locker, he could finally definitely say that he's halfway done. Clint spent the rest of the day doing that tedious work.

What he wasn't expecting was the call from Steve. It was a shocking call too. The Avengers, with the help of SHIELD, discovered a HYDRA base in Sokovia. More than that, they believe the base is where Baron Strucker is hiding.

Clint abandoned his work and went to his SUV. Now he has to make the 4 hour drive to Manhattan to get to the Avengers Tower. He did make a stop by his apartment in order to tell Yelena the news.

Once he arrived at the Tower, he barely had time to get ready. They went over the specs of building and talked about the infiltration plan. Once that was done, the six Avengers got into the jet and took off to Eastern Europe.

One Week Later...

Clint stared blankly at the ceiling fan go round and round. He was lying on his bed with his hands resting on his chest. Sokovia was running fresh through his mind. Technically, only one moment was replaying in his head.

That kid, stuck in all the debris from the destroyed building, was his main focus when he ran to the kid. He should've been paying attention to all his surroundings, because if he had been, a real hero would still be alive. Had it not been for Ultron taking control of the quinjet, he would still be alive.

He sacrificed himself to save Clint and the kid. And now, that's all Clint can see. Every time he closes his eyes, he sees Pietro's body on the ground, full of bullet holes, and staring back at the kid he just set down.

The second it happened, Clint couldn't stop feeling guilty about it. This is why he hates working with a team. With the exception of Natasha and occasionally Coulson. Ever since the night his whole Birds of Prey team was killed, he's had a serious aversion to working with others.

"Are you going to spend all day like that", he heard Yelena ask from the door of the bedroom.

"Maybe."

"Clint, you can't be beating yourself up." She walked over to the bed and climbed on. "He made a decision to save you and that boy."

Clint let out a breath. "I know, but he didn't have to die. That damn robot should not have been a thing in the first place."

"What's done is done, Clint. You can't change that. What you can do is stop blaming yourself for his death. He chose to save you."

"How do I get over it, Lena?"

"By accepting that you don't have to be the hero?"

Clint closed his eyes and sighed as he felt Yelena cuddle up next to him. "I'm not a hero." He wrapped an arm around her.

"I know. I know. You don't have to give me the speech." Yelena reached over his chest and under his shirt. She started rubbing the spot where the HYDRA weapon hit him. "You underestimate what people really think of you."

Clint chuckled. "Who's thoughts am I underestimating?"

"Mine." Clint looked at her. She met his gaze and smiled. "And Natasha's. Clint, if it wasn't for you, we would still be enemies of the State. Not to mention, the Red Room would still be operational. I also know that there are a few others at SHIELD who think you're more than you give yourself credit for."

Clint smiled weakly. "Thanks, Lena." He kissed her forehead.

"And there is someone else who will think of you as a hero."

"Who?"

"Our baby."

Clint's mouth opened slightly while Yelena's smile grew. "You wanna keep the baby", he asked slowly in shock.

Yelena nodded before kissing him. "It's going to be a large challenge." Clint quirked his brow. "Okay, a very large challenge, but one I'm looking forward to facing with you."

Clint smiled. "Me too." He kissed her for a few more seconds. "When did you decide?"

"Yesterday. I was planning on telling you when you got back from Sokovia. Before I could, Natasha told me what happened."

Clint's smile faded slightly but Yelena could still see it on his face. "We can totally spend all day here. It's only 10 a.m."

Yelena laughed. "No, you can't. You have a job to do at the Triskelion."

"It's so boring", he whined leaning his head against the wall.

"You are so lazy, Clint Barton", she said with a small laugh.

"I know."

The two stared at each other before Clint kissed her again. She moaned into the kiss before climbing on top of him.

"We'll stay in bed today", she said before removing his shirt.

Clint smiled at her and continued to remove her clothes.

The Next Day...

Clint shuffled through the hallway to the door. Someone was knocking very irritatingly. Once he got to the door, he opened it with an angry face. A face that quickly disappeared when he saw it was Ms. Allice. He was always sweet when it comes to her.

"Hi, Clint. I'm so sorry to bother you this early but I need help."

"What do you need?"

"I just need you to move a shelf for me for my book club today. If you have the time?"

Clint gave her a small smile. "For you, anytime."

The old woman smiled at him. "Thank you."

Clint followed the woman into her apartment. He helped her move the shelf around and then ended up moving a few other things. He didn't mind though; he would do anything for her. She has shown him so much love and affection for him since he moved to D.C. Once he was done, she gave him a plate of freshly baked cookies that just came out of the oven.

When Clint got back to his apartment, he got ready to go to the Triskelion. The loads of crap he had to go through still very present. The skirmish with Ultron was time he could've spent working. It didn't help that Steve wanted to go through old SHIELD files.

Clint put on his uniform and left the apartment. He kissed Yelena, who was getting ready to meet Natasha at a diner, before leaving. He drove to the Triskelion and walked down the stairs to the floor he's been working on for a while.

He spent the next five hours looking through boxes, containers, and files. He sorted them by priority, placed them back into boxes and containers, and piled them by the door to the staircase. Clint would have kept working had it not been for the phone call. A call he wished he didn't answer.

Clint sped through the D.C streets back to his apartment. When he arrived, he saw three PD cruisers, a few detective vehicles, and a coroner's van. He ran up the stairs of his apartment building. Once he got up to his floor, he froze.

Detectives and regular officers were outside her apartment getting witness statements. Clint walked past the small crowd of tenants gathered around the scene. He was about to walk into the apartment until an officer stopped him.

"I'm sorry, Sir. I can't let you in."

Before Clint could reply, a detective walked to the door. "Are you Clint Barton?"

"Yes."

The detective waved him in. The officer moved to the side. "I'm Detective Allen."

Clint shook his hand. "Thank you for calling."

"You were the only number in her emergency contacts. We couldn't find any family."

"She didn't have any besides me", he said quietly.

Clint looked around at the apartment. It was a real mess. He saw the destroyed furniture, tossed tables, and broken picture frames.

"What happened?"

"We believe forceful entry based on the broken door frame. They beat her while others robbed the place. They left the TV and computer. We also found her jewelry. Do you know if she had anything else worth taking?"

"She didn't have a lot", he mumbled.

Clint looked down at the body being examined by the coroner. He walked to the body and crouched down. The detective tapped the coroner's shoulder, telling him to move. When the coroner got up, Clint slowly put his hand on the head of the body. He felt tears start to well and he wasn't going to stop them from falling.

"I'm sorry", he whispered. "This should not have happened." He stroked the bruise on her cheek.

"Mr. Barton, I have a few questions to ask you."

Clint nodded slowly. He got up and looked at the body before following the detective.

"First, I'm sorry for your loss." Clint didn't react. "Is there a faster way I contact you if I have more questions? Perhaps a place of employment?"

He wiped away a fallen tear. "It's going to be difficult to find me at the place I work."

"Why?"

Clint reached into his jacket pocket and showed the detective the silver bird on his badge. "Because it's currently under construction."

Detective Allen's eyes widened. "Oh...I did not know you were with SHIELD."

"Most don't. That's kinda the point. The fastest way to reach me is the number you called earlier."

"Okay", he said writing that down on a note pad. "Do you know if she had any enemies or owed anybody anything?"

Clint took a deep breath to calm down. He was offended by that question and was about to yell at the man for asking such a question, but Clint realized he was only doing his job. "No, everyone loved her. She was the sweetest person in this building. In the world even. No one would want to hurt her."

Detective Allen nodded and wrote some things down. "When was the last time you saw the deceased?"

"This morning. I helped her move some furniture."

"Okay." He wrote more things down. "I know you SHIELD guys like to take over investigations but..."

"Don't worry, I won't interfere. I'll let you guys run your investigation. Just please keep me updated."

"I will keep you informed."

Clint gave him a weak nod before walking out of the apartment.

Clint walked past the officers and went to his apartment door. He unlocked it and walked in, closing the door behind him. He walked to his bedroom and opened his closet door. Moving some things around, he picked up three boxes with the SHIELD logo on them. He took off the lids to all three and looked inside each box.

Clint let out a sigh of relief when he saw nothing was missing. It did not make him feel much better though because Poseidon's Blood still could have killed her to hurt him. He walked away from the boxes. He leaned his back against the wall and slid down. Clint just stared at the wall opposite him.

He did not know how long he was sitting on the floor of hid bedroom when he finally stood up. Based on the time on his phone, 17:19, he was on the floor for two hours. He exited the apartment and there were no officers outside. Not a single officer, detective, or tenant around.

Clint got into his car and started driving. He had the intent of going back to the Triskelion, but went in a different direction. That direction took him to a bar he used to frequent before recruiting the Widows.

"Hey, Clint. It's been awhile since we've seen you here", the bartender said.

"George", Clint said with a smile. "What the hell are you doing here? I thought you were getting your PhD."

"I flunked out."

Clint sat at the bar just as George put a beer bottle in front of him. "Why? Get caught cheating again?"

"Hahahaha", George replied mockingly. "The material was way too much for me. Luckily, Fatty didn't want to hire anybody new."

"You still call him 'Fatty'?"

George nodded. "It's never going to change." He served a few people at the bar before walking back to Clint. "How come you haven't been here?"

Clint took a swig of his beer. "My job is keeping me busy and my personal life is getting crazy."

"Crazy how?"

Clint chuckled. "It's gonna take a few more drinks before I answer that."

George laughed. "Okay." He walked over to the end of the bar to serve some customers.

"Look at you", an all too familiar voice said. "Wallowing in your own self pity."

Clint froze in place. That voice is not one he thought he would hear. His head slowly rose up from looking at the bottle but never turned. "You have some nerve coming here."

The person took a seat next to Clint. "I'm not the one drinking in the job."

"Why are you here, Val?"

"I'm getting what I want, watching you suffer." Clint was about to grab the gun in his belt when Valentina put a hand on his own. "I wouldn't do that. Some of these customers aren't as friendly as they appear. Put your hands back on the bar."

Clint, with all his reluctance, put his hands on the bar. "You come here to kill me?"

Valentina laughed lightly. "Not at all, Clint. I've come here to warn you."

He finally turned his head to look at her. "Warn me?"

She nodded. "Stay out of my way. Stop looking for me. Stop involving people who will get hurt because of your own self interest."

Clint's grip around the beer bottle tightened. "What makes you think you can stop me from finding you and killing you?"

She smiled. "The Ghost." Valentina noticed the slight change in Clint's posture. "You don't want him coming out to play. The truth will be very difficult for everyone to accept."

"I don't let the truth control me."

"No? Then why do you subject yourself to those nightmares? Or the visions? Why do you hide the suit, the files, the truth in your closet? So no one can find them?" Clint's grip tightened more. "Like I said, stay out of my way." She got off the stool and put some money on the bar. "Or more people will get hurt. Your drink is on me." She turned for the door.

"Did you kill her?"

She slowly turned to look at him. "If you have to ask, then you already know."

Clint watched the older woman walk out of the bar, a few people getting up and following her. He turned his head to look back at the bottle. His anger was so severe that his grip became so tight on the bottle causing his hand to shake. It shattered in his hand. Pieces of glass and alcohol covered his hand. Some glass pierced his hand making him bleed.

George ran over to him and started helping him clean up. Clint walked to the bathroom and washed his hand; careful when removing the glass from his hand. After apologizing to George about the mess and paying for the drink, he went to his SUV.

When he arrived back to his apartment building, he saw Yelena's truck in the parking lot. He walked up the stairs and stopped outside his door. He turned his head to look at Ms. Allice's door. His eyes wandered to the police seal on it. He took a look at his hand before opening his door.

Once he closed it, he saw Yelena standing there. She walked over and wrapped her arms around him. He instantly wrapped his own around the blonde woman.

"I'm so sorry, Clint", she whispered in his ear.

He didn't reply. He just stood there with his arms around her and let the tears fall. She didn't mind. She was flattered that he could be so vulnerable around her; especially given their situation. She just laid her head on his shoulder and let him cry.

One Week Later...

Clint took off his shoes and socks. He rolled up his jeans to his knees and looked out at the ocean. He felt a strange sense of calm in this place. Clint was in Laguna Beach, California. The place where his lovely neighbor wanted to have her ashes spread.

She told him the story about her late husband proposing to her on the beach. They went to the beach every anniversary until he died. They both wanted to have their ashes spread on the very beach. Clint loved the look on her face when she said she would be with her husband again.

He stood from the bench and grabbed the urn. He took a look at the paper next to it one more time. She was very particular about how she wanted her ashes to be spread. Clint walked past the people running, playing, and laying on the sand.

He walked into the shallow water. Clint stood there, admiring the feeling of the water. Once he soaked in the ocean air, hr took off the lid to the urn. Clint carefully poured the ashes into the water; letting the waves carry the ashes out to the open ocean.

"Now you can be with your husband", he said as the last of the ashes was poured out. "Thank you for everything you've done for me."

Clint walked out of the water and sat on the bench he was sitting on before. He put the urn next to his shoes on the sand. He watched all the people having fun on the beach. His eyes landed on the small family having a picnic. Clint smiled and closed his eyes.

Letting the ocean breeze hit his face, he took a deep breath. The sounds of laughter, talking, seagulls, and waves filled his ears. His mind, for the first time in a long time, was actually at peace. Clint let out a breath and basked in the new found sense of calm.

At the Avengers Compound...in Upstate New York...

"Thanks for doing this, Stark", Coulson said. "These new upgrades will make life a lot easier."

"Anything you need, Phil", Tony said. Then he started to laugh.

"What's so funny?"

"Nothing. It's just interesting to think about."

"What is?"

"Fury's right hand losing a hand."

Coulson rolled his eyes. "My team already beat you to that joke. And about ten other jokes. I think they have a list going around."

"They do. I've got a few on there."

"Why am I not surprised", Coulson said as he admired his new hand that looked exactly like his real one. "At least Barton isn't here to see it. He would go nuts."

Tony continued to laugh.

They walked out of the lab and down the large hallway. They were going to where Coulson's team was talking with the Widows.

"I heard about the whole Skye, inhuman situation. How's that going?"

"It's...interesting. A serious adjustment because of the name change and having someone with superpowers on the team."

"It could come in handy."

"Was that supposed to be funny?"

"It was a real statement. If it fit the situation, then fine", Tony said before laughing.

They both turned when they heard a whistle. They saw Fury standing a small distance away from them.

"Looks like you're being summoned, Luke Skywalker."

"Yeah, May beat you to that one."

Tony laughed before turning back around and started walking in the direction they were originally going. Coulson walked to Fury and they went to a private part of the section of the compound they were standing in. It was very easy to find empty rooms because the compound is still being moved renovated. Coulson's team decided to come and help the new Avengers move into their new headquarters.

"Have a new mission", Coulson asked.

"Not this time." Fury handed Coulson a folder with the SHIELD logo on it.

Coulson's eyes widened. "File 32? I thought this was still in the theoretical phase?"

"It still is but recent events have made me wonder if we should activate it now."

Coulson opened it. "Recent events like the Hulk taking off in a jet?"

"Recent events like what's happening with Blood."

Coulson nodded. "You sure he's ready?"

Fury let out a breath. "I'm not sure."

"He is the one most qualified for the job. No one else is more fit for this specific job."

"I'm aware, Coulson but he doesn't see himself as a leader. He can barely handle being a part of a team much less lead one." There was a moment of silence. "Once the Triskelion is up and running again, we'll be able to do more work on the project."

"Has Barton finished the clean up?"

"He said he's almost done. Ultron happening and then his neighbor being killed didn't help."

"At least once he's done, you won't have to worry about someone taking something damaging to SHIELD."

"Once he's done", Fury said quietly.

Elsewhere in the Compound...

"Wait, so your real name is Daisy Johnson", Natasha asked.

"Yeah", Daisy said while nodding. "And all the questions I had about my parents were finally answered."

"Wow", Yelena said. "And I thought we had weird family situations", she said looking at Natasha.

"Yeah", Natasha said with a smirk.

"And now there's an Inhuman on the team", Bobbi said.

"Yep. Lower budget version of the Avengers", Tony said walking by the group.

They all looked at each other before laughing.

"He's not wrong", Hunter said.

"Anything else happen to you guys", Natasha asked.

"Nope", May said. "Saved a SHIELD boat from super powered crazies, Coulson lost a hand, she learns the truth, and I remembered why I chose to be an instructor."

Everyone began laughing. May only smirked.

"If it helps, I thought you were an amazing instructor", Yelena said.

"Yeah", Hunter said. "You were the best." Bobbi nodded in agreement.

"If Clint was here, I bet he would say the same", Natasha said.

"Speaking of which, where is he", Daisy asked. "He called me a few days ago about a Blood lead. I tried calling him back but he didn't answer."

Natasha and Yelena looked at one another knowingly. Yelena slowly put a hand on her belly. She still has a week or so before her bump would start to be visible, so she can still wear her regular clothes. She doesn't think anyone saw her do it which means she still has time to figure out how to say it.

"He's been in California the past three days", Yelena said.

"What is he doing there", Hunter asked.

The sisters looked at each other again before looking at the group. "He's dealing with a personal issue", Natasha said. Clint asked them not to say anything. It wasn't about the whole thing being a secret but rather private.

The others nodded in understanding.

"How are things between you two going", Mack asked Bobbi and Hunter.

Natasha and Yelena's eyes widened. "I knew it", Yelena said. "Fucking finally."

"You've been waiting for them to get together", Daisy asked.

"You should have seen them in the academy", she replied. "The touching. The looks. The yelling."

Everyone started laughing.

"You're one to talk", Bobbi said.

"What does that mean?"

"You and Barton. You two had some flirtatious thing going on."

The others began laughing. May and Natasha had small smiles on their faces.

"There was nothing going on between us", Yelena said before biting her bottom lip.

"Yeah, right." Bobbi stared at her. Her smile of amusement slowly turned to shock. "Oh my god, you and Clint?"

Daisy, Mack, and Hunter looked at her with wide eyes. Yelena only nodded.

Daisy looked up at May who had a small smile on her face. "You knew didn't you?"

"I had my suspicions. Yelena confirmed it."

Yelena put her face in her hands. "I can't believe we're having this conversation."

"Yeah well, we are", Bobbi said. "When did it happen?"

Yelena looked at Natasha pleading for help with her eyes. Natasha stared at her sister and began laughing. If she was being honest, she has a few questions of her own. Questions that Clint refused to answer on more than one occasion.

Ten Hours Later...2:37 a.m (Pacific Standard Time)...

Clint woke up panting and sweating. He threw the sheets off him and walked to the bathroom. His body got covered in goosebumps when the cool air of the hotel room hit his uncovered body. The only thing he had on was underwear.

When he entered the bathroom, he turned on the water and filled his hands. Clint splashed the water in his face, hoping it would calm him down from the nightmare. He threw water in his face two more times before looking at his face in the mirror. Clint watched the drops of water fall from his chin and tip of his nose.

"You keep people in the dark to protect them", a familiar voice said. "But even those in the dark can still be targets."

Clint saw the black and gold figure in the mirror. "I'd ask why you are always here but it's a stupid question."

"Indeed it is", he replied. "What did you dream about this time?"

"The fuck do you think?"

The Ghost laughed. "You could have saved her."

Clint rolled his eyes. "I'm not listening to you."

"You don't have a choice. Like I was saying, you could have saved her."

Clint tried to fight the urge to ask but he wanted to know. "How?"

The Ghost stepped closer to Clint. "By releasing me. Loki released me from those chains you put on me, but only you can release me from this imaginative state."

Clint chuckled. "Why would I do that?"

"Because I can do what you refuse to do. Kill. Poseidon's Blood never would have been able to be as strong as they are now if I had been free."

"You don't know that", he growled.

"Or do I?" The Ghost right next to Clint. "I was unstoppable. No one could stop me. Every mission Fury sent me on, I succeeded. Those who knew the truth feared me. Blood would be gone by now if you had the courage to let me out."

"I will never let you out again. I hated what you did. Everything you made me do."

"If you hate me, then why don't you have the strength to get rid of me? The suit? The files? The sword?" Clint could not reply. "It's because deep down, you know I'm right. Deep down, you know that everything I've done, we've done, was the right thing to do. The world is better because those people are dead. Bad people would still be alive if not for us."

"That isn't justification."

"Funny, you used to say the exact opposite."

"The Ghost will never see the light of day", Clint growled.

"That's what you think. Every day, every encounter with Blood, inches me closer and closer to seeing the light. You lie to yourself about how much control you have; or that's waht you told May at least. I know you wouldn't lie to her."

"I will do what it takes to keep you in."

"And you will lose everyone you love trying to do that."

"No", Clint said quietly.

"Yes. You will lose everyone because you can't contain your own self destruction."

"No", he said again, only louder and closing his eyes.

"You'll lose them all. Natasha, May, Coulson. The Avengers and agents you've grown close with who put their lives in your hands."

"No", he said louder.

"And the most painful of it all, you'll lose your precious Yelena. Not to mention the baby."

"No", Clint yelled swinging his arms around hoping to hit something.

Clint looked at himself in the mirror again. He turned the sink on and splashed water on his face. The cold water felt somewhat soothing but not enough to help him. Clint slowly sank to his knees. The tile of the bathroom floor felt chilling to his knees. He fell to his bottom. Clint pulled his legs to his chest.

"No", he said quietly in between sobs.

Chapter 18: A Disturbed Mind

Notes:

This chapter really got away from me. Small trivia question at end.

Three Weeks Later...

Clint silently stood in his bedroom. He has to get ready to go to the Triskelion to finish moving everything. His body would not let him move. The nightmare still fresh in his mind. Clint grabbed his jacket and slowly put it on his body.

He knows he will be able to finally finish the job today. There has not been a lot for him to do since getting back from California. It is probably a good thing that he has not been given much to do though. His talk with the Ghost still got to him. And the talk with Valentina on top of that.

Clint did not tell anyone about the talks he had. He did not even tell Fury about Valentina in the bar; which might bite him in the ass later. Clint also did not tell a soul about the talk with the Ghost. He couldn't tell anyone about the talk. He feared Yelena's reaction the most.

There is only one fact about that the people who know the Ghost do not know about the Ghost. His mind is perhaps more dangerous than his skills. The thoughts of one become the thoughts of both. When the Ghost mentioned Yelena and the baby, his heart ached. He was not only scared for them but because they are his thoughts. If the Ghost has targets in mind, than they become his own targets.

All the fear and grief is why he has been so quiet when he got back. The only people he has talked to are Natasha and Yelena. On some days, he's barely even said two words to the women. Clint was glad that they did not push for him to explain. In his mind, they probably think he is still mourning the loss of his neighbor.

Clint could not help the sting he felt in his heart at the thought of the Ghost getting out. He smirked slightly at the thought of him still having a heart. He meant what he told the therapist; he lost his heart upon joining SHIELD. Everything he has done removed what he once had.

When Clint got to the Triskelion, he immediately began working on what was left. Clint was amazed at how quick the reconstruction was going. According to the foreman, the reconstruction should be done in two and a half months. Thanks in part to the Sword and Shield Defense Bill. He does not really care how long it will take, just as long as he does not have to move everything back to the building once it is finished.

Over the next couple of hours, Clint read and prioritized everything. It was not long before he had everything ready to go to the storage locker. He loaded the first pile into his SUV and took it to the storage locker. He did that with the remaining piles.

"Finally done", Clint said. He was standing in the empty floor he just finished clearing out.

Clint pulled out his phone to call Fury. After informing his superior of the news, Clint decided to go for a long drive around the city. He's hoping it will clear his head. He stopped, two hours later, at the Washington Monument. He walked around the monument and looked up at it.

He has seen the monument so many times but he never actually got to enjoy it. Clint sat on a bench nearby and stared at it. He closed his eyes. That is when his mind took over.

Eleven Years Ago...

Clint walked up to the monument and stood there. He looked around at all the people walking and looking at it. His memories from the mission still very present and making him shake.

"What branch you from", a man asked.

Clint turned his head. "Excuse me?"

"What branch are you from?"

"Marine Corps. Raiders."

The man's eyes widened. "Special Forces? You look young to be in Special Forces."

Clint smiled. "I was recruited when I was 18. Made the right impression I guess."

"Rank?"

"Master Sergeant. You?"

The man smiled. "First Lieutenant. Army Rangers."

"Should've known."

The man smiled. "Rangers lead the way."

"Yes sir", Clint said with a small smile.

"What's your name, son?"

"Clint Barton."

"Nice to meet you", the man said shaking Clint's hand. "Randy McCall."

"It's nice to meet you too, sir."

"What's a young guy like you doing here?"

Clint smiled. "Had a day off."

"Day off? You aren't a soldier anymore?"

"No. I turned EOD for a year then got out."

"Tired of having a real career?" Clint laughed along with Randy. "What made you leave if you don't mind me asking?"

Clint thought for a moment. "It became more intense than I expected."

Randy nodded. "Completely understandable." He turned his head to see Clint looking at all the people. "It makes you think, doesn't it?"

"What", Clint asked looking back at Randy.

"All this", Randy said looking at all the people. "It makes you think about everything we fight for. All the people that rely on us. Most of the people don't even know what we do. The operations we run." Clint stared at the ground. "All they know is that there are soldiers fighting for them; making and performing the decisions that they cannot."

"To what extent", Clint muttered. Randy looked at him. "The cost of freedom comes from the blood of others."

"That's the unfortunate part", Randy said. "Having to find the right mindset. Taking lives is never easy, but easier when you know it's for a good purpose."

Clint nodded. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath.

Present Day...

Clint let out a breath and opened his eyes.

The conversation with Randy made its way into his head a lot over the years. It would especially come into his mind during the years of the Ghost. His mind would always go to that of justification. He thought he knew what that word meant, but now, he has no idea what it means. And his talk with the Ghost certainly added more questions about how he defines justification.

Clint pulled out his phone to see he had three texts and two missed calls from Yelena. He checked one of the texts. After reading the text, he instantly went back to his SUV. He had completely forgotten that Yelena had an OBGYN appointment and he wanted to be there.

He drove through the streets to the doctor's office. He was only ten minutes late. Clint walked through the small building to Yelena's room. He knocked on the door and opened it. Clint saw Yelena sitting on the bed looking through a magazine.

"Sorry I'm late", he said walking over to her.

"It is okay, Barton", she replied. He could tell she was very clearly upset. Her Russian is very prominent when angry. And the use of his last name was a hint too.

"Lena, please don't be mad."

Clint was about to reply but the doctor walked in with a nurse.

"Hi, Ms Belova. Mr. Barton, good to see you", she said. They both smiled at her. "Alright, let's see how your baby is doing." Yelena pulled her shirt up just enough to give the doctor access. The doctor poured the gel on Yelena's on her slightly extended belly bump and began her work. "Everything looks good."

Within a few minutes, Clint and Yelena started to hear a heartbeat. Yelena looked up at Clint. He looked at her with a small smile on his face. Yelena reached up to grab Clint's hand and she squeezed it. Clint rubbed her hand with his thumb. He noticed a tear roll down her cheek.

"Do you want to know the sex?"

Clint looked at Yelena. "It's your choice", he said.

She smiled at him. "We do", she said to the doctor.

"Well", she said looking at the screen. "It looks like you're having a girl."

"A girl", Yelena asked.

The doctor nodded. "Congratulations."

Yelena looked up at Clint with a big smile. He returned it.

"Do you want photos?"

"Please", Clint said.

The doctor nodded and started talking to the nurse. She cleaned off Yelena's belly. Once the nurse handed the ultrasound photos to Yelena, she and the doctor walked out.

Clint smiled at the photos. "Can you believe it", he asked. When he didn't hear a reply, he looked down at Yelena. She was staring at the photos. "Hey, you okay?"

She blinked a few times before looking up at him. "What? Yeah, yeah. I'm fine."

"Are you sure?"

Yelena looked back at the photos. "There's a part of me that did not think this was actually happening. This is making it so real." Clint sat on the small bed and wrapped an arm around her. "How are we cut out for this?"

Clint quirked his brow. "What do you mean, Lena?" He placed his free hand on her thigh.

"Clint, you and I are not cut out to be parents. We both had terrible childhoods and now we are expected to give her one? How are we supposed to do that, Clint? How can we do that? Neither of us know how to raise a child."

Clint could tell her breathing was becoming erratic. He knew right then she was having a panic attack. "Hey, look at me", he said as he placed a finger under her chin to make her look up. He met her gaze. "Breathe."

Yelena nodded and took a few deep breaths. Clint kept her gaze the whole time and breathed with her. He smiled when he noticed her breathing begin to even.

"You're right", Clint started, "you and I didn't have normal childhoods. Almost no one can beat our stories." Yelena smiled weakly. "Just because you and I didn't grow up the normal way, if there is even a definition for that, doesn't mean we can't give her a good childhood." She smiled and kissed him.

Yelena leaned her head against Clint's own. She wrapped her arms around him. Clint wrapped his arms around her. "Thank you, Clint", she whispered. He smiled and slightly tightened his hold on her.

Hours Later...

Clint walked along the pier of the Warf. He told Yelena that he had some things to do and she did not fight him on it. He did feel bad for lying to her but he had to keep her in the dark. Her happiness and safety means everything to him.

He walked from the pier to a diner close by. He was not expecting to see Natasha sitting at a booth staring at him. Clint sighed and walked over to the booth.

"Funny seeing you here", Natasha said.

"Why were following me?"

Natasha smiled. "Skipping the pleasantries? Fine. What's going on with you, Barton?"

"I don't know what you're talking about, Nat."

"Yes you do. You've been acting like an ass to everyone who's trying to help you. You've avoided everyone but me and Yelena. And you've barely said two words to either of us. What the hell is going on?"

"It's better if you don't know."

"Don't do that to me, Clint. You can get away with that with everyone else but me. And whatever is going on with you directly effects Yelena. Especially now."

Clint closed his eyes and sighed. He knew she was right. Everything he does now effects Yelena and the baby. His mind started playing more games with him than before. On one hand, he thought he was in the right to keep the talk with the Ghost a secret. On the other hand, they deserve to know but he doesn't know if he can handle her reaction.

"Clint, you still with me", Natasha asked.

Clint looked at her. "Yeah."

"Good. Tell me what's going on."

Clint took a minute to think. "It's the Ghost. I'm afraid I'm losing control."

Natasha's look softened. "Still having visions?"

Clint nodded. He took comfort in the thought that he can tell Natasha about the Ghost and not be judged. For any of it.

"When?"

"In California. He knew all the right things to say and I couldn't stop him."

"What did he say?"

Clint gave her small smile. "What do you think?"

"He threaten you?"

Clint nodded.

"Yelena?"

"And the baby", he said looking out the window. He looked back at her. "You know exactly what that means."

"No. Don't be jumping to conclusions like that, Clint. You said you're losing control, not that you've lost control."

"And what happens when I do lose control? What then, Nat?"

"Then we're going to help you, but you have to be honest with us about it."

"How do you expect to help me? You know how powerful he is. You've seen it firsthand. You also know the lengths he'll go to to get his target. I'm perfectly aware of how I've been acting. Ever since that talk with the Ghost, I can't help but feel like I'm suddenly going to hurt someone I love."

"It wouldn't be you, Clint."

"No, it wouldn't. At the same time, it would be me."

"Then maybe you need to find a way to stop him while you have the strength."

"I've been trying but every day he gets stronger. Every time I find something related to Blood, he gets stronger because I get angrier. I can't control my anger. He feeds on it. He feeds on my anger, my guilt, my fear, all of it. And one day it's going to burst. I won't be able to handle it if it's someone I love on the receiving end."

"Clint, the people closest to you know the Ghost. They know how he thinks and what it means."

"All but one", he said with tears in his eyes. "I don't know if I'll be able to handle her reaction, Nat."

That's when Natasha's heart broke. She knows how deep his scars are concerning the Ghost. She also knows the deep but dangerous connection Clint has to the Ghost. A connection, that no matter what, can't be broken. The Ghost is a part of Clint forever.

Natasha reached over the table to hold Clint's hand in her own. "Clint, I know for a fact that you won't let the Ghost hurt Yelena."

"It doesn't change the fact that I don't know how she will react when I tell her."

"No, but she deserves more credit than you're giving her. Remember how she reacted to you telling her about the Ghost?" Clint nodded. "She may not say it but she really loves you. And I know how much you love her. You two have had crazy pasts and still manage to find peace. Clint, she can help you contain the Ghost."

"How?"

Natasha smiled softly. "She counteracts the emotions that feed the Ghost. I know it. May knows it. Hell, even Coulson knows it and he didn't know you two were dating until a month ago." Clint smiled. "She is a calm in your very destructive life. You need her, Clint. You just need to tell her."

Clint nodded slowly. "Thanks, Nat."

They let silence fall over them for a moment. "How did the appointment go?"

"It went great." Clint reached into his pocket and grabbed out the small photo. He placed it in front of Natasha and she grabbed it. "You're gonna have a niece", he said with a smile.

His smile was mirrored on Natasha's face as she picked up the photo. "I can't believe it. You're having a girl?"

Clint nodded. "And that girl is gonna have the best aunt."

She handed the photo back to Clint. "How did Yelena react?"

"She was freaking out at first but I calmed her down. She was really excited when we left."

"Have any names yet?"

"No. We haven't really done a whole lot in the way of baby stuff."

"What do you still have to do?"

Clint smiled. "Everything. We haven't even discussed how we're going to do the whole co-parenting thing."

Natasha started to laugh.

Clint smirked. "What?"

"The last thing I ever expected you to talk about is anything related to a baby."

Clint began laughing. "That makes two of us."

A waitress walked over and placed a plate of food in front of Natasha.

"You ordered?"

"I didn't know how long you were gonna be sulking", she said cutting into her food.

"I wasn't sulking."

"Keep telling yourself that."

Clint rolled his eyes and shook his head.

"Are you going to talk to Yelena about how you're gonna raise the baby?"

Clint nodded. "Of course I am. I don't know what to say."

Natasha took a bite. "Well, start with what you want." Clint looked down at the table. "What is it that you want?"

"I don't know."

"Here we go again", she said silently. "Yes you do." She took another bite of her food. "What do you want, Clint?"

"I want to have my family with me, Nat. I want Yelena living with me so we can raise our daughter."

Natasha smiled. "Then tell her that."

"I will, Nat. Trust me."

"Okay", she said taking another bite of the food.

The two continued to talk for another 30 minutes. They discussed some of their old missions. Natasha told him about some of the things the Avengers have been doing. She also told him about some of the things at their new compound.

Clint got into his SUV after they finished talking. The moon had fully risen over the city by this time; it can not be seen though because of all the city lights. Those same lights illuminated the streets for Clint. He was busy contemplating what to tell Yelena. He wants her to live with him. He wants them to be a family. Not that they wouldn't be but he wants them to be with him.

A pair of headlights pulled him out of his head. Clint looked in the rear view mirror and noticed the car getting closer to him. He shrugged it off. When he looked back at the mirror and saw it never changed its speed. That's when he tensed.

Every fibre of his being told him it was Poseidon's Blood. He didn't really "back off" like Valentina told him, but he didn't do much in the way of investigating. Clint heavily relied on Daisy to investigate while he was clearing out the Triskelion of files and weapons.

Clint reached over to the glove compartment and grabbed his gun. One of his guns anyway. He kept one hand on the wheel and the other held the gun. He knew where he was so he made a sharp left into an alley that went straight to a side road. He stopped ten yards from the side road.

He watched the car pull in behind him. Then another car pulled in front of him from the side road. The doors to the driver and passenger sides of both vehicles opened. Four men walked toward the SUV with crowbars. Clint rolled his eyes when he realized they were normal carjackers.

"Get out of the car", one of the men yelled.

Clint slowly put the gun down on the passenger seat. He was not in the mood for this. Clint got out of the SUV and closed the door. He listened for the footsteps of the two men behind him. Clint began twirling a penny in between his fingers and looked at the only light that lit the alley.

"Get away from the car", the same man yelled.

Without a second thought, Clint flipped the coin at the light. The bulb instantly shattered and went out. The four men began yelling because the headlights of all three cars were off.

"Where is he", one of them yelled.

"Who cares? Get the car", another yelled.

Two of them got closer to the SUV before they heard a grunting followed by metal hitting the ground.

"The hell was that?"

"George! George, you there?"

It was silent until another grunt was heard from the other side of the alley. That was also followed by the sound of the crowbar hitting the ground. The last two guys, closest to the SUV, looked at where the sound came from. They looked at each other.

"Let's get out of here."

The two men ran towards one of the cars blocking the entrance of the alley. One of the guys fell to the ground. The last guy looked at the man running with him. He was hit by a crowbar because there were two crowbars next to him. The guy began panicking. He looked around at the darkness.

When nothing happened for a few seconds, he ran for the car. Once he got to the driver side door, he placed his hand on the handle but it was too late. Clint rammed him into the door. The force was hard enough that the window shattered. The guy fell to the ground.

Clint stood over the body, looking at him. His hands clenched in fists. If anyone could see him, they would undoubtedly see the fire in his eyes. The same fire he's been trying to extinguish. When he was sure no one was getting up, he went back to his SUV.

"That's why I am the Ghost", a voice said before laughing.

Clint got into his SUV and rammed the car blocking the entrance to the side road. Once free of the alley, he was back on his way to his apartment.

The rest of the drive was calm. He turned on the radio because the silence became a bit unbearable. Once he got to his apartment building and parked, he just sat in the SUV. His mind was going a million miles a minute. He stepped out and looked around.

Clint's done this so many times but this time felt different. His talk with Valentina really made him paranoid. The fight with Poseidon's Blood didn't make him this paranoid before Valentina's threat. He knows that she lives up to each threat she makes.

Clint walked up the stairs, careful to be aware of his surroundings. He really could not ignore how extreme his paranoia had become. He stood outside the door. He took a deep breath to calm his uneasy nerves. He did not want to talk to Yelena with this much adrenaline. Or with the Ghost so close to the surface.

He opened the door quietly and walked into the apartment. He quietly closed the door. Clint was expecting Yelena to make some noise of existence but it was quiet. He looked to the living room and saw that the TV was on. He walked over to the living room and his eyes traveled down to the couch.

A small smile appeared on his face. Yelena was sleeping on the couch. She was cuddled up in a small ball at the end of the couch. He noticed that she was wearing his civilian jacket. She mentioned a few times how much she enjoyed wearing his jacket. She must enjoy wearing it more now because of the baby bump. Or that's the excuse he's expecting to hear.

Clint sat on the arm of the couch that Yelena was against and began stroking her hair. It took her some time to become familiar with his touch. It's been five months since she's jumped in shock at his touch. Clint spent the next few minutes stroking her hair. He just sat there and admired her.

"I love you, Lena", he whispered while stroking her hair. "I just wish I knew how to tell you." Clint bent down and kissed her head.

Clint got up and walked to the kitchen. He smiled when he saw the ultrasound photo taped to the fridge. He pulled out a water bottle and drank from it. The cold liquid was calming to him. He set the bottle down on the counter and walked to the bedroom.

He sat down on the bed. "You can't hurt her."

"I won't be the one to hurt her."

"Blood won't free you. I promise you that much."

"They don't need to free me. I've already been set free."

"No you haven't", Clint growled.

The Ghost started laughing. "Then what was earlier about? That was me. Not you. You've lost your hold on me and soon enough I will take complete control. Your strength over me continues to diminish. We both know I'm the superior warrior."

Clint reached into his pocket and grabbed out his ultrasound photo. "Even you have your weaknesses", he muttered.

"My weaknesses are your weaknesses." Clint continued to stare at the photo. "Apparently you've developed some more." Clint's head shot straight up. "Just remember Clint, the creature is stronger than the man who created him."

Then the voice stopped. He let out a breath when his mind calmed. Clint set the photo down and put his head in his hands. He knows he needs Yelena but telling her the truth will be difficult for her to accept.

Clint rose from the bed a minute later and walked over to the closet. He opened the door and began rummaging through some boxes he had inside it. This time he avoided the three SHIELD boxes. He finally found the small box he was looking for. Clint lifted the lid of the box. He took a photo out and looked at it.

"The creature took time to create", Clint muttered. "But I am the one who created him."

Notes:

"The creature is stronger than the man who created him"-the Ghost.

I'm referencing something here. Does anyone know what it is?

Hint: a book

Chapter 19: Pain of the Past

Darkness. Darkness was all he could see. He did not know if this was a dream or not. At this point, he stopped trying to figure out what is real and what is not. Suddenly, a small light appeared. The light got closer and closer and was coming at a speed he could not comprehend. It got close enough that it felt like it blew him off his feet.

When his eyes opened, it was not darkness, but rather night. He sat up. His hands felt the roughness of the sand below him. Suddenly, he heard a loud explosion. He got up and ran to the source of the smoke in the sky. That is when he saw a warehouse on fire.

He watched a figure jump out the second story window. The figure landed on his feet and walked away from the burning building. The figure was on fire but not concerned about it. The fire on the figure quickly died out. It did not take long to realize the figure is the Ghost. He ran towards the Ghost. The moon shining a clear path towards the assassin.

The Ghost watched a figure run towards him. They stared at each other when the figure stopped. The Ghost charged at him. They engaged in a fight that only lasted one minute. It ended with the Ghost plunging a knife into the chest of his enemy. He rose and looked at the body beneath him.

"How many times will we do this before you accept your fate", the Ghost asked.

Clint shot up in bed. He was sweating and panting. He glided his hands up and down his chest, mostly over the part the Ghost stabbed him. Clint felt relieved when he realized it was a nightmare. He was still breathing hard and sweating.

He looked over to see Yelena did not even stir because of him. Throwing the sheets off him, Clint walked to the bathroom. He turned on the sink and splashed his face with water to calm down. He stared at himself in the mirror, looking right into his own eyes.

That nightmare has been the same for he does not even know how long. The first time he had it, he did not really react to it. He just shrugged it off as another nightmare. When it started to become more and more frequent, he started to become suspicious of it.

Clint wondered if the Ghost was suspicious of it too, or if the Ghost was the source of the nightmare. It made sense for it to have been the Ghost. He has access to Clint's thoughts. It would make sense he could give Clint those nightmares.

Clint replayed the nightmare in his head. He knew the building. It was from a mission from his third year at SHIELD. And a GHOST Protocol mission at that. A group of mercenaries stole nuclear launch codes from a navy submarine that they sank. Fury and the Security Council said the mission called for an "unseen soldier".

His mission was to infiltrate the warehouse the mercenaries were hiding in and take the codes back. He was to also "leave no witnesses" which means to kill them all. The mercenaries were more prepared than he thought so he was forced to blow the building with the mercenaries' own explosives. Luck for him, the suit is fireproof. He also got the codes.

The Ghost blew the explosives from the second floor because that was where he would escape. Once the building was completely engulfed and all the mercenaries were dead, burned, or both, he jumped out the window.

That mission was still very clear in his memory, unlike some of the other GHOST missions. He continued to think about the nightmare. The Ghost winning the fight, every time, had to mean something. The location of the nightmare, a warehouse in the middle of the Pakistan desert, also had to mean something but what? What does it mean?

Clint jumped slightly when he felt a hand on his shoulder. He may have been looking at a mirror but his mind was so far from reality. Clint turned his head to look at the soft and beautiful eyes of the mother of his child. Yelena reached down to grab his hand in her own.

"You okay", she asked.

"Yeah", he replied with a small smile.

"I know you are lying to me, Clint Barton."

Clint smirked. "You can see that, huh?"

"Did you have another nightmare?"

"Same one as before."

Yelena's hand tightened. "Anything I can do to help?"

Clint shook his head. "No."

Yelena let go of his hand and wrapped her arms around his neck. She smiled when he wrapped his arms around her.

"Let me know if I can do something", she whispered before kissing his cheek.

The two agents stood there in each others arms for a few minutes. Clint knew Natasha was right when she said that Yelena is a calm in his destructive life. And her presence would only increase because they will start moving Yelena into Clint's apartment.

Over the next week, that is exactly what they did. Clint, Natasha, and Yelena moved her into Clint's apartment. She did not have a lot which made it easier on them. Plus, as Natasha jokes, Yelena has already been living with Clint. Every time she made the joke, Clint and Yelena would only smile.

Clint looked through some of the stuff in his closet. He has not seen some of the stuff in a long time. Some of it was from his SHIELD academy days. Other things were from his military service days. He even found a box of old triggers and blasting caps he kept from bombs he disarmed as an EOD tech.

"The good old days", Clint whispered to himself with a smile accompanying it.

Clint put that box down and grabbed another small box labeled 'BoP'. He spent a minute just staring at the label. Uncertainty filled his mind about opening it. So many memories were in the box, but not all of them were good.

Clint took a deep breath before lifting the lid. As he expected, memories came pouring into his mind by the contents of the box. He sat down on the carpet of the closet and reached into the box. He grabbed out the photo that was on top of everything else. A small smile crept its way onto his face.

"The boys", he whispered.

He set the photo down next to him on the carpet. Clint grabbed out some of the patches. One of the patches was his rank, six stripes with two guns on the inside. He rubbed the patch with his thumb. The other patch was a bird head inside the scope of a rifle. The patch of the Birds of Prey.

Clint set the patches on the floor with the photo. He began going through the rest of the box. There was not a lot left to look at because he created the box to hold very specific items. He took out the small square, black box and set it aside without opening it. That was one item he did not have to see to know only bad memories were inside. To be more specific, one very painful memory.

Only two items were left inside. He reached inside and grabbed out the chain necklace. Clint smiled at the dirt covered stainless steel. He completely forgot where he had placed hid dog tags. He set them down and took out the final item.

A folded piece of paper. Like the small black box, he did not have to unfold the paper to know what is written inside it. He slowly unfolded it. Clint's eyes scanned the words of the paper. Before he knew it, he had tears in his eyes. The last time he saw the paper was when he wrote it.

Clint folded the paper back and placed it back into the box. He put everything else back into the box. His dog tags was the only the item to not go back into the box. Placing the lid back on the box, Clint put it back where it belonged in his closet.

He grabbed his dog tags and put them around his neck where they belonged. Clint continued to go through what was left in his closet. He made a pile of things to throw away, a pile of clothes he doesn't where anymore to give away, and a pile of items he was keeping. Yelena moving in gave him the chance to finally get rid of old things.

Clint piled the items, throwing away and giving away, by the door. He walked to the fridge to grab a bottle of water. He put his hands on the handle but stopped when he saw the ultrasound photo. Every time he looked at the photo, he would smile. He felt his phone vibrate in his pocket causing his smile to fade slightly. He grabbed it out.

Coulson: We need to talk. Want to meet?

Barton: Sure. Where?

Coulson: Bluestone Lane Cafe. West End. In 45?

Barton: See you there. May be a little late.

Clint brought the piles of his stuff to his SUV. He drove to the place where he could give away his clothes. He made sure Yelena did not want any of them to where because of the bump. Then he went to the dump. He unloaded everything he had left. After that, Clint drove to the cafe at which Coulson wanted to meet.

He parked his SUV a block away from the cafe. Parking is his biggest peeve about D.C. On the walk to the cafe, Clint made sure to text Yelena he may not be at the apartment when she and Natasha get there. The two women had gone out around 9 in the morning to look at baby stuff. Yelena was very adamant about it.

Clint walked into the cafe. He looked around and saw Coulson at a table, eating the classic chicken and bacon club roll, Coulson's favorite. Clint walked over and sat opposite the older man.

"I should've known you would have wanted to meet here", Clint said.

"You mean at my favorite cafe that I hardly get to come to because of my new position? Yes, you should have known."

Clint nodded. "What's going on, Coulson?"

Coulson wiped his lips with his napkin. "Daisy wanted me to give this to you", he said handing Clint a jump drive.

"What's on it", Clint said while examining it.

"She said it was "classified mission" you gave her."

"Oh, that. You came all this way to give a jump drive?"

"No. I wanted to enjoy my favorite cafe. She knew I was coming to D.C and said to give it you."

Clint nodded. "Why didn't she come with you? I would've liked to talk to her about this."

"I sent her and Bobbi on a mission yesterday." Coulson took another bite of his roll. "What's on the drive?"

"Some Poseidon's Blood information. Their silence has become a concern."

"You think an attack is coming?"

"I don't know. The last time they made noise was when they killed my neighbor." Clint did not like telling Coulson that lie. No one knows about his talk with Valentina in the bar.

"What have you and Daisy been able to find?"

"Possible hideouts, storehouses, fronts, and labs."

"Any locations on Val?"

"A few, but we can't know without confirmation. We can't get confirmation without going there. We can't go there because she's good at covering her tracks."

"The risk may or may not be worth the reward."

"She is hard to find. You know that."

Coulson nodded. He took a few more bites of his food. "How are you and Yelena?"

Clint hesitated at the question. He has to tread lightly when replying. No one, besides the three, know she's pregnant. "We're good" he finally said. "She and I are moving in together."

"Really? You mean you two haven't already been living together", he said before laughing.

Clint smirked and shook his head at his friend.

When Clint returned to the apartment, he saw Yelena and Natasha talking on the couch. He walked over to the women, kissed Yelena, and sat on the chair next to the couch. The two of them began telling Clint about what they found. He smiled at the excitement in Yelena's eyes. Clint could tell she was ready to turn the guest room into a nursery.

 

The Next Day...

 

Yelena and Natasha moved some of the boxes Clint had in the closet. Yelena started moving her civilian clothes around. She noticed that Clint's cleaning the day before had made a lot of room for her stuff. She also noticed there would be more room once the three SHIELD boxes were gone. The only boxes Clint said they could not touch.

Yelena was a little upset when Clint said he could not help them. He had to meet with Fury to discuss the classified intel he has seen while removing the files from the Triskelion. Clint was surprised it took so long for Fury to finally meet to talk about all of it.

Natasha unpacked the last box with Yelena's things. When she graduated from the academy, she took advantage of her freedom. She got to wear what she wanted, minus her required SHIELD uniform, she got to be who she wanted to be, and have what she wanted to have. All that freedom meant she got to find herself. It was not a lot but enough to spend hours packing at Natasha's D.C apartment. She kept it just in case she visited Clint and Yelena. And soon her niece.

The two women worked on getting Yelena's things organized. Because of the small, yet present, baby bump, Yelena was working with the lighter items. She tried to fight it but Natasha and Clint were good at convincing her to take it easy.

Yelena would tell Natasha where to put certain things or to wait for Clint to get back. She wanted to make sure Clint was okay with moving some things. He said at the beginning he was okay with them moving whatever but she still respected his input. While Natasha moved some of the heavier stuff, Yelena finished hanging her clothes. The clothes she did not already keep at Clint's apartment.

She grabbed the last pile of folded clothes from the bed and went back to the closet. She hung the shirts and put away the folded pants. She looked at the completed work. A small smile appeared on her face at the thought of her and Clint actually living together. Soon to be joined by their daughter.

"Hey Yelena, can I put a box in the closet", she heard her sister ask from the living room.

"Yes", Yelena replied.

Natasha walked into the bedroom carrying a medium sized box. Yelena grabbed a small box from the shelf in the closet and placed it on the edge of the bed. She watched Natasha put the box on the shelf. Yelena began telling her to push the box to the corner to make space. She did not notice that she knocked the small box off the bed.

Both women looked at the fallen box. The lid came off, revealing some of the contents to them. Natasha walked over, grabbed it all, and placed it on the bed. She looked at Yelena who was staring at the items. Yelena grabbed the lid and read 'BoP' written on the tape. She did not recognize the initials.

"What is all this", Natasha asked.

"I am not sure", Yelena replied. She examined the contents. "It must be Clint's old military stuff", she said while looking at the patches.

"I have never seen any of this. Have you?"

"No", she replied shaking her head.

"He's never shown it to you?"

"None of it."

Natasha grabbed the photo while Yelena grabbed the small square box. Natasha looked at the photo closely, as if trying to decipher it. She instantly picked out Clint among the men in the photo. Yelena read the inscription on the small box then opened it. Her eyes widened at it. Her eyes traveled down to the words on the small gold plate.

"What is it", Natasha asked. Yelena handed the box to her. "Damn", she muttered. "Why doesn't he have this in a case?"

"He never said he had one."

The two spent a few more minutes looking at the box. They tried to figure out what some of it meant and why Clint hid it from them.

"There has to be someone who knows what this all is", Yelena said.

"Sam might", Natasha said. "They served together."

Yelena looked at Natasha. "Should we ask him?"

"We're going to New York in an hour. We can ask him."

"Should we is the question. I mean Clint kept this hidden for a reason. Maybe he does not want us to know."

"We don't have to ask, but it can't hurt to know."

Yelena began rubbing her baby bump. "Fine. Let's ask him", she said letting her suspicions get the best of her.

Natasha put everything back in the box. Yelena grabbed out her phone to text Clint. He was five minutes away from the apartment. Then they would take a quinjet to the Avengers Compound. Tony needed to talk to Clint about Stark Industries working with SHIELD. Apparently Fury, Coulson, and Hill refused.

 

Two Hours Later...

 

Clint, Yelena, and Natasha, arrived at the Avengers Compound. Clint went to Tony's lab while Natasha and Yelena searched for Sam. They somehow snuck the box onto the quinjet without Clint's knowledge. They eventually found Sam doing repairs on his wing pack.

"Hey Sam", Natasha said.

Sam turned to look at the Widows. "Hey. What are you guys doing here?"

"Tony needed to talk to Clint", Natasha said.

"What happened to your pack", Yelena asked looking at the damage.

"You wouldn't believe me if I told you", Sam replied.

"Try us", Natasha said.

Sam smirked. "Fine but don't tell Steve." The women nodded. "A guy in a suit attacked the compound last week. He has this shrinking tech and he got into my pack. I got my ass handed to me by a man the size of a tic tac." Yelena and Natasha tried to hold back laughs. "It's not funny. He really damaged my suit."

"You're right", Yelena said clearing her throat. "It's not funny."

"It's extremely funny", Natasha said before they burst out laughing while Sam just stood there.

"You guys suck", Sam said turning back to his work.

"Sam, we're sorry", Yelena said with a smile still on her face.

"Come on, Sam. We need to ask you something", Natasha said.

Sam huffed out a breath. He turned to look at them. He noticed Yelena wearing a jacket too large for her. "Is that Clint's jacket?"

"Yep. I like how it feels." That was not a complete lie. She does like to wear his jacket but it's mostly used to cover the bump.

"Okay. What do you need?"

Natasha showed Sam the box. "We're wondering if you can tell us something about this."

Sam took off his work gloves and walked over to the table. Natasha put the box down. Yelena walked stood next to her. Sam grabbed the box and lifted the lid. His eyes widened at the first thing he saw. Sam grabbed out the photo to examine it closer.

"Oh my god", he said quietly.

"What is it", Yelena asked.

"It's the full team."

"What", Natasha asked.

"The Birds of Prey. This photo is extremely rare."

"Why", Yelena asked.

"The team was almost never seen together outside their base. Teams that need help would maybe see two but never all six. I've never seen them together."

"Wow", Yelena said.

"Where did you get this?"

The sisters looked at each other before answering. "In Clint's closet", Yelena replied.

"Does he know you're looking at it?"

"No, but we wanted have questions", Natasha said.

"Then why don't you ask him?"

"He's been silent about the whole thing", Natasha said.

"Sam, you are the only one who can give us answers", Yelena said.

Sam looked them and sighed. "Fine. What else?"

"Who's the guy next to Clint", Natasha asked.

Sam looked at the photo. He easily found Clint, on the left hand side, and looked at the soldier next to him. "That's Major Alex Thompson. Clint's old C.O."

Yelena's eyes widened at the revelation. She remembered the story Clint told her during her evaluation. He said that his C.O was killed in front of him. And that led him to do something to make him appear on SHIELDs radar.

"He's never said anything about him", Sam asked.

"Clint doesn't talk about his past a lot", Natasha said.

"We would ask but he would either stay silent or become angry", Yelena said.

Sam nodded. He grabbed the next thing in the box, the patches. "Master Sergeant", Sam said looking at the patch with stripes. Then he looked at the other patch. "Their insignia."

Yelena and Natasha looked at the patch. "Interesting insignia", Yelena said.

"For a team of snipers who called themselves the Birds of Prey", Sam asked.

Yelena rolled her eyes. "What about this", she asked handing the small box to Sam.

Sam opened it and his eyes almost popped out of their sockets. "The silver star?" Sam read the gold plate below the medal. "This is right before he joined EOD."

"Do you know how he got it", Natasha asked.

"He stayed silent about his previous service. I didn't want to budge."

"I wonder why he does not want to talk about such an honor", Yelena said. "The silver star is a big honor, I thought."

"It is. It's the third highest honor any soldier can be awarded."

"Then why doesn't he talk about it", Natasha asked.

"One of two reasons. One, his special forces training taught him not to brag about it, or two, he is ashamed of how he got it."

"Ashamed of how he got it", Natasha asked.

"Yeah. He feels he doesn't deserve it."

"Jeez", Natasha muttered.

"What could he be ashamed of", Yelena asked.

Sam looked at the rest of the box. He noticed a small piece of paper at the bottom. "What's this?"

Natasha and Yelena looked at him. "I don't remember seeing that", Natasha said.

Yelena shook her head.

Sam unfolded the paper. After reading the first few lines, he set the paper down. "Oh my god. I shouldn't be reading this."

"Why not", Yelena asked.

"It's his death note."

"His what", Yelena asked.

"His death note", Sam replied. "Special forces operators can't tell their family members what they are doing or where they are going. So, they are required to write a letter if they don't make it back. Essentially their last words to their families."

Yelena placed a hand on her baby bump. Natasha grabbed the note. She began reading it. Soon enough, Natasha had tears in her eyes. Not a lot makes her cry but Clint's note certainly did.

"You guys should put all that back and pray he doesn't notice it's gone."

"That's a good idea", Natasha said as she folded the paper.

Natasha and Yelena put everything back in the box. They thanked Sam before leaving to find Clint. Well, Yelena went to look for Clint anyway. Natasha went to hide the box on the quinjet before talking to Steve.

When Yelena found Clint, he was talking with Rhodey. She did not know what they were talking about but they were laughing. Rhodey shook Clint's hand and smiled at Yelena before walking in the opposite direction of Yelena. She wrapped her arms around Clint's waist.

"What was so funny", she asked.

Clint wrapped his arms around her and inhaled her scent. "I was telling Rhodey about Stark helping SHIELD."

"What's funny about that?"

"Stark wants his name on the Triskelion."

Yelena snorted. "Of course he does."

Clint smiled and kissed Yelena's head. "Where's Natasha?"

"Talking to Steve I think. I was focused on looking for you. I feel like I haven't seen much of you since the whole baby thing happened."

Clint closed his eyes and sighed. He knew that would come up. He placed another soft kiss to her head. "I'm so sorry I made you feel that way, Lena. That was not my intention."

"I know it's not, Clint. I just want you back."

"You and I live together now. You have me and I am not going anywhere."

Yelena smiled and sank into Clint's arms. His touch is so calming to her. The softness of his jacket around her definitely helped. Even after their daughter is born, she may not stop wearing his jacket. Yelena took a small step back to look Clint in the eye.

Her mind wandered to the thought of the items in the box. She struggled at the thought of telling him about finding it. Yelena was about to say something until she thought of the death note. She personally has not read it but she wondered if Clint has a note like that for her. Or even their daughter.

Clint clearly noticed Yelena's demeanor change. He placed a hand on her cheek. "You alright?"

"Yeah", she lied. Lying to him about the box was not the best option but it was her only option. "I'm fine."

"You sure?"

She hated herself for lying to him. Clint's soft blue eyes always made her melt. "I'm fine, Clint. Maybe a little hungry."

Clint smiled. "Well, you are eating for two", he said while placing a hand on her bump. "Let's go see what Stark stocks this place with."

Yelena nodded.

Clint smiled and wrapped his arm around her as they started walking. Yelena laid her head on his shoulder as they walked.

The two agents found something to eat. They were joined minutes later by Natasha. After they had finished eating, the three went back to D.C. Shortly before they left, Natasha told Steve she would be back the next day because they should be done moving Yelena by the evening.

When they arrived, Clint started to help the women finish moving everything around. Natasha was able to quickly put the box back before Clint noticed it was gone.

It did not take long, with all three working, to get Yelena completely moved into Clint's apartment. He was beyond ecstatic because they were finally living together. Yelena was just as excited. She was also ready to move on to making the nursery. Clint knows that responsibility falls on him. They began arguing over when to start the project. Natasha smiled at her two best friends.

 

A Few Hours Later...

 

Natasha left to get three of them dinner. Clint and Yelena made some small adjustments to the living room furniture. Clint stepped out onto the balcony to answer a call from Daisy. That left Yelena alone on the couch to look around at their work. She was also alone with her thoughts. The same thoughts making her regret lying to Clint.

Yelena could not stop thinking about the medal or the death note. She has questions. Questions that only Clint can answer. She looked out on the balcony to see Clint pacing while holding his phone to his ear. Yelena took a deep breath then stood. She walked to the bedroom, entered the closet, and grabbed the box.

Clint walked back into the apartment. He was reading something that Daisy sent him.

"Everything okay", Yelena asked.

"Nope. I had Daisy look into Rising Tide hackings that might be connected Blood. She said that she found a few."

"How bad is it?"

"Don't know yet. She's looking into them now." Clint looked up and saw the box sitting on the counter. "What the hell is that doing out?"

"I need answers, Clint."

"Answer the question, Yelena", he said much louder than he intended. He could tell because Yelena flinched at his tone. Clint took a breath to calm down. "Please tell me why you were looking at that."

"I moved it earlier so Natasha could put a box on the shelf. It fell off the bed and we saw what was inside."

"Wait, we? Who else knows?"

"Me, Natasha, and...Sam."

"Sam? Why does Sam know?"

"Natasha and I asked him questions about the stuff inside. We wanted to know."

"And why didn't you ask me?"

"You get angry or shut down when we ask about your military service."

Clint was about to retort until he started thinking. The only time he actually talked about his time of service was during Yelena's evaluation and May walking him from his nightmare. Any time they would ask him questions, he would not tell them. He even remembers yelling at Yelena at one point to which Natasha was not happy. Maybe Yelena eas right.

"Dammit", Clint said quietly. "You're right, I do that."

Yelena walked over to Clint and grabbed both his hands in her own. "Clint, all I want to know is what the stuff is and why it is important."

Clint nodded slowly. "What do you want to know?"

"The death note. Who is it to?"

"You haven't read it?" Yelena shook her head. "Well, I wrote it to my mom. She died before I even joined the Marines but I decided to write it to her. If you want, you can read it."

Yelena grabbed the note and started to read it. She could not believe what she was reading. It made sense to her know why Natasha had tears in her eyes. She was close to crying too. When she looked up at Clint, he too had tears in his eyes.

"I remember everything I wrote on that damn paper", Clint said.

He reached over and wiped away a tear that rolled down Yelena's cheek. She set the letter down and grabbed the box with the medal. "What about this? Sam you said you might be ashamed to have it."

"I am ashamed of how I got it."

"Why?"

Clint took a second to compose himself. "Do you remember the story I told you about my team getting killed and what I did after?"

"Yeah."

"They gave me that medal because of it. The U.S military tried unsuccessfully for three months to take that area but the resistance was too great. When the brass discovered what I did, they had a decision to make. Either court marshal me or cover it up by making it look like I did something heroic."

"But you did something heroic. Didn't you?"

"It's up to the person who hears the story. To me, killing those rebels out of revenge isn't worth a medal."

"What is it worth?"

"A court marshal to the fullest extent."

"Clint", Yelena said grabbing his hand. "You had just lost your whole team."

"Doesn't mean I deserved a medal."

"Maybe not, but I do think you should not beat yourself up. You were not in your right mind."

Clint turned his head to look at the photo of his team. He smiled. "The day that picture was taken, the team had just gotten back from a convoy that was attacked. Those soldiers fortified themselves in a nearby abandoned building. We were called in to provide cover so they could get away."

"Sam said that you guys would almost never be seen together."

"That's true, but there were some cases where the full team goes."

Yelena noticed the small smile on Clint's face causing her to smile. "How come you did not tell anyone about this sooner?"

"This box carries a lot of bad memories."

"Then why do you not get rid of it?"

"Because it's a reminder."

"Of what?"

"The last time I felt like I was part of a family. The last time I belonged somewhere."

Yelena's heart sank at that statement. She tightened her grip on Clint's hand. "You have a family now, Clint. You have me, Natasha, and our daughter. Not to mention those few at SHIELD."

Clint gave her a small smile. "Thanks, Lena."

Yelena smiled back. She wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him before burrowing her head in the crook of his neck. Clint wrapped his arms around her.

"We really have to think of names for our daughter", he said after a few minutes of silence.

They both began laughing while they held each other.

That night, much like every night, Clint had his arm around Yelena, resting a hand on the baby bump. She was right up against his body. They both had smiles on their faces when Clint would talk about their future. When Yelena fell asleep, Clint would gently rub her belly while whispering comforting words in her ear. That was his way of returning the favor for her helping him accept his past. And he just enjoys being this close to Yelena, knowing the words he says helps her sleep.

Notes:

I am sorry this chapter was slow and mostly talking. I promise the next chapter will have more.

Chapter 20: A Revelation

Notes:

Sorry this chapter took so long. Hope you enjoy.

Yelena moaned at the feeling of Clint's lips dancing down her neck. It was the best feeling in the world to her right now. Her sex drive has been going wild the last few months. Clint definitely had no problem with it. And neither did Yelena if she was being honest. It gave them excuses to "get creative" about where and when they have sex.

Clint's hands traveled down her naked back. His finger tips glided down her spine causing her to moan and shiver. He smiled at the thought of still being able to make Yelena moan like that. Even after all these years, even though she's nine months pregnant, he can still hit all the right spots.

Yelena pulled back to look Clint in the eye. She cupped his face with both hands and kissed him. They both smiled. She rubbed his cheeks with her thumbs and leaned her head against his head. Clint placed a hand on her belly and slowly rubbed it.

Clint's calloused hand felt good on her extended belly. Yelena brought a hand from his cheek to cover his hand on her belly. He moved his head back slightly and started kissing along Yelena's jawline. Her hand still on his cheek moved to the back of his neck. She let out a loud moan when Clint kissed a very sensitive spot on her neck. She could not deny how good he is at finding her weak spots.

A lot has happened to the two agents in the course of the last six months. It all started with making the guest room into a nursery. They had gone back and forth on what colors to make the walls before deciding on a light purple. With Natasha's help, they got everything done that had to be done.

Clint had put all the baby furniture together. While he was doing that, Natasha and Yelena discussed how to arrange the room. Once it was all done, there were still some minor additions Yelena wanted. Clint could not say no to her, so he made the renovations she wanted to make. When it comes to Yelena's puppy-dog eyes , he is putty in her hands.

The next change that came about was telling everyone else about the baby. And that meant telling them how it was possible for Yelena to become pregnant. The people most surprised were Bobbi, Hunter, and May. Everyone else were very shocked but less so than the aforementioned three. Fury did not have any outward reaction to it.

Two people in particular had mixed reactions to it. Telling Alexi and Melina was the most awkward conversation she had when telling people about her pregnancy. She would have preferred telling her friends a thousand times over telling her "parents".

Clint was beyond grateful that Yelena did not make him go with her to tell them. He knew a talk with a super soldier and a black widow was not something he would live through. Yelena could only smile at his fear. Both Alexi and Melina still want to meet the man who did that to their precious Yelena though.

Not every change directly effected their personal lives. Some changes took place that effected their "secret" lives. The Triskelion had finally been reconstructed. That meant SHIELD could finally be up and running at full strength.

Clint was glad Fury did not make him move all the files and weapons from the storage lockers back to the Triskelion. Fury only ordered him to move the three Ghost boxes back to the Triskelion. Having SHIELDs main headquarters back also means that Clint has his office back. Or so he thought.

During the course of SHIELDs reconstruction, Fury relied heavily on Clint. Not just to go through classified files but with intel relevant to SHIELD being rebuilt. All that trust and reliance meant that Fury gave Clint a higher classification level and a bigger office. One with windows that can tint. He also took advantage of the vents above his office. Fury made sure to let Clint still have a nest.

Fury also did a complete reconstruction of SHIELDs rank ladder. The new World Security Council, led by Councilwoman Hawley, still oversees SHIELD but gives Fury a longer leash. Fury promoted both Coulson and Hill to Level 10. Only the three of them are Level 10. Clint got promoted to Level 9. May was also promoted to Level 9. Fury wants his most trusted agents closest to him. He also promoted other agents like Yelena, Daisy, Mack, Bobbi, and Hunter for their skill, knowledge, and contributions to SHIELD.

Since Clint got his office back, or rather, a better one, he was able to help Daisy do more research on Poseidon's Blood. One day, something in his mind snapped and he just completely ignored Valentina's threat from their talk in the bar. Everyone still did not know about that talk but it was not going to let it scare him.

His and Daisy's research would soon prove beneficial. Using the new intel they found paired with the old intel Clint already had, SHIELD began wiping Poseidon's Blood hideouts off the map. He and Daisy led the teams most of the time.

They also took out warehouses holding weapons and gear. If they were lucky, SHIELD would get to take one the few research facilities. Taking the Poseidon's Blood agents prisoner was very difficult to do. They made an example of captured agents by killing them. In some cases, the agents being attacked would kill themselves to prevent capture by SHIELD.

Zero of the hideouts, warehouses, or research facilities that SHIELD took had much in the way of locations on Valentina. Clint thought it was because none of them were high enough up the ladder to know or because Valentina would not tell anyone her location.

The drive to find Valentina was driving Clint's determination. A little too much in Daisy's opinion. She has been keeping Yelena informed on Clint's state of mind. Yelena wanted to help them find Valentina but she and Clint wanted to protect their baby from their dangerous job. In order to do that, most of SHIELD had to think she was on a deep cover operation for the last six months, the time period from when she started to show and could not hide it.

The hunt for Poseidon's Blood would take Clint and Daisy out of D.C a lot meaning that Clint did not have the normal means by which he would calm his mind. Much like how Clint had done with May to help Yelena with panic attacks, Yelena told Daisy how to help Clint calm down if he overreacts.

Clint, Daisy, and a tactical team had just gotten back from Cuba. They discovered Poseidon's Blood was creating a nuclear missile. They did not have a source for it yet which meant SHIELD had an opportunity to attack. Clint was not expecting so many agents to be guarding it. A Taskmaster was among the agents guarding it. Clint's fight with the Taskmaster was short with Clint winning in the end by killing him.

That mission was Daisy's first introduction to the Taskmaster. She was surprised at how quick Clint took him down because she almost died fighting him. The mission also gave her a hint of the Ghost. Clint told Daisy some things about Project SHADOW but nothing about GHOST Protocol or anything related to the Ghost. He also made sure to have Coulson present, just in case he could not get through the brief.

After the debrief, Clint immediately went to his apartment. That is how he got into his current predicament; Yelena on top of him, his lips attacking every inch of flesh he could find. The mission went longer than he thought which kept him from being able to touch Yelena for so long. Long being two weeks.

 

Week 38 of Yelena's Pregnancy...

 

Clint watched Yelena sleep. He smiled at how beautiful she looks. The rising sun shone through the windows and Yelena was at just the right angle that the sun illuminated her face perfectly. She was facing him so he reached over and softly stroked her cheek.

He knows that Yelena is ready to be done being pregnant. She really wants to be back in the field. Clint does have his problems with her eagerness but he could not blame her. Yelena has been a fighter since she was a girl and all those years of fighting creates an itch. That is another reason he could not argue with her; he knows about that itch.

Yelena's eyes slowly opened. She squinted slightly until adjusting to the light. When comfortable, Yelena smiled at Clint. He was still stroking her cheek. Clint looked right into Yelena's eyes. The eyes he fell in love with. Yelena placed her hand on his.

"It is nice to see you still in bed with me", Yelena said.

"What does that mean", he asked with a small smile.

"For the past few months, you would be out of bed or already gone. I am happy you are still here with me. That is all."

Clint leaned over to peck her on the lips. "I'm not going anywhere, Lena." Yelena kissed him again before leaning her head against his. Then she winced in pain. "You're okay", he said taking notice.

Yelena nodded as she breathed. She sat up. Clint supported her by letting her use his stiff chest to support her back. Pillows were comfortable, but sometimes, Clint's chest is preferred choice.

"Braxton hicks?"

"Yes", she said in between breaths. "It hurts, Clint."

Clint nodded. "I'm right here. Breathe."

Yelena grabbed his hands and squeezed. The pain subsided a few seconds later. Yelena laid her head against Clint's shoulder. "I am so ready for her to be born."

Clint smiled and kissed her shoulder. "She will be soon."

"I hope you are right."

"Me too", Clint said silently.

Yelena settled in his arms. Clint could not stop the sting of guilt in his chest at Yelena's earlier comment. He knows she would never admit it, but he is neglecting her . He has been focusing too much on Poseidon's Blood and finding Valentina that he has not spent much time with Yelena.

Neither of them wanted to admit it, because they stink at emotions, but they have not been on stable ground. A small part of Clint thinks that is why he has been doing all the missions. When he would return, Yelena would be on him like a cat on a mouse. They spent the last few months substituting talk with sex. They did not mind all the sex but Clint still felt the guilt.

Clint felt Yelena move in his arms. He looked down at her to see her shift her body. Yelena put her head on his chest and closed her eyes. He saw a small smile on her face causing him to smile. She was listening to his steady heartbeat. Clint placed a soft kiss on her forehead before closing his own eyes to enjoy the moment.

 

Hours Later...

 

Clint walked through the halls of the Triskelion. He was still somewhat in awe at it even though he had been back for a couple of months. He passed a number of agents, and cadets, on the way to the elevators. Once he arrived, he went to the floor with his office.

He looked out the window at the city. He saw three quinjets take off from one of the landing pads. When the Triskelion fell, SHIELD moved to many of its nonoperational bases meaning it was more spread out. Now that the Triskelion is back, SHIELD can lead all operations from its main base while utilizing the other bases.

Clint turned his head when he heard footsteps come to his closed door. "Come in", he said before the person knocked.

The door opened and in walked Daisy Johnson. "I didn't even knock yet. How do you do that?"

Clint smirked. "I don't know if I can explain it. I would've thought Coulson or May would have warned you about it."

"They probably did. I've learned to tune them out thanks to you", Daisy said with a smile.

Clint laughed. "Yeah. Listen to them fight enough, you learn how to do that."

Daisy chuckled. "What's the plan today", Daisy asked as she took a seat on the other side of Clint's desk.

Clint turned around and took a seat in his chair. "Same as it has been", Clint said in a cold tone.

Daisy noticed the sudden change in mood. "You okay?"

"Yeah", Clint said with a nod, "I'm good."

"And the winner for worst liar goes to Clint Barton." Clint stared at Daisy dead in the eye and did not move a muscle. That caused Daisy to purse her lips. "Sorry."

Clint looked down at his desk. "No, I'm sorry. I've got a lot more than Blood on my mind right now."

"I noticed. What's going on?"

"It's something with Yelena."

"Is something wrong with the baby", Daisy asked with some urgency.

"No, they're both okay."

"Then what is it with Yelena?" Clint grabbed a stack of files on his desk and dropped them back down. It made a loud clap. "Oh, that."

"Yeah. I don't know what to do."

"Have you tried talking to her?"

"Because she and I are great at that", he said sarcastically.

Daisy rolled her eyes. "Maybe you need to take a break from all this."

"May tried telling me the same thing. I did not listen."

"Maybe this time you should. You should spend more time with Yelena before the baby comes because you and I have spent more time together the last few months than you and Yelena have."

Clint nodded. "I know."

"I can handle things for a while, Clint. If I find something big, like Valentina's location, I will let you know." Daisy could tell Clint still was not convinced. "Come on, Clint. Trust me."

"What if you run into another Taskmaster? The one in Cuba almost killed you."

Daisy will admit, not to Clint, she did not think of that. "Fair point, but it doesn't mean it's impossible for other people besides you to kill a Taskmaster."

"Right now, you don't fall under that category. Especially with a broken arm he gave you."

"How dare you", Daisy said jokingly. And slight offense.

Clint smirked. "Powers aren't everything, Daisy. Believe me, I should know."

Daisy laughed. "If you're that concerned, then teach me how to fight him."

Clint's smile faded. "It's not something I can teach." Clint looked at the framed photo of his Birds of Prey team. "Not easily anyway."

Daisy knew she struck a nerve. She accidentally struck it. Over the course of their "partnership", taking down those hideouts and bases, Daisy learned what not to say around Clint. Before Daisy fully devoted her time to helping Clint, May and Coulson gave her a list of topics to never bring up. Natasha did the same thing. Yelena just said to be careful.

Wanting to change the subject, Daisy noticed the mission brief on Clint's desk. "Is that the file from our mission?"

Clint looked at the file and grabbed it. "Yep."

"Anything good on their tech?"

"Only the usual."

"Nothing?"

Clint nodded. He stared at the SHIELD logo on the file. "The only information we've gotten to work off of came from Haiti. They learned from their mistake. They know not to keep intel on their computers. If they do, they must destroy it before we get to it."

"Do you want me to look at it?"

"If you want. Our techs aren't as good as you."

"Aw, thanks."

Clint rolled his eyes and shook his head. "Go do your job, Johnson."

"Yes, Sir", Daisy said while saluting him sarcastically. She got up and left.

Clint threw the file back on the desk. He rubbed his face with his hand and began to contemplate what Daisy had said about talking to Yelena. His hunt for Poseidon's Blood really is keeping him spending time with her. Clint's eyes wandered to the photo of his team. Then he started to think.

Clint grabbed the photo from the desk. He examined it closely; studying the faces of his old team. Then he got to the older man standing next to him. His mind flashed to the memory of the desert. The explosion, leading to the gunfight, leading to the death of his mentor, leading to the massacre. He tossed the photo on the desk before quickly slamming his clenched fist down on the desk.

It is in that exact second that Clint realized the truth. The real reason why he has not spent much time with Yelena. Clint closed his eyes and took a deep breath. He could not believe it. The question is, will he believe the truth or deny it?

 

Four Hours Later...

 

Clint was still in his office. He was in his chair, staring out the window. He never stopped thinking about what to say to Yelena. He owes her an explanation for his behavior. He was thinking about this until he heard his door open and paper hit the desk.

"Find something good", Clint asked without turning around.

"Better than good. I may have found the grand prize."

Clint turned to look at the female agent. "You found her?"

"I'm not 100% positive but it's a good place to look."

"I am not even going to ask how you found it. Instead, I'm going to ask where?"

"Turku, Finland."

Clint thought for a second. "Get Alpha Team ready to deploy in two hours."

"You're coming too? What happened to sitting this out?"

"I'm not taking any chances with Valentina. No team confronts her without me."

"Copy that", Daisy said. "I'll tell Hill we're leaving."

"Also, see if Hill has gotten word from Echo Team."

"They haven't gotten back yet?"

"Not yet. It has me worried."

Daisy nodded. "Understood, Boss."

When Daisy left, Clint grabbed his stuff to leave. Walking out of his office, he pulled his phone out of his pocket. He was about to text Yelena when he read the last text he sent her, "Going to Cuba. See you when I get back." Clint sighed at the revelation. He really has been treating her like garbage.

Not wanting to do that again, he went to the parking garage and went to their apartment. Clint did not have a lot of time to figure out what to say. That thought brought questions to his mind. How is he going to say he is going to Finland? How will she react? Will she even react?

Soon enough, Clint arrived at the apartment. He took a breath to compose himself. Walking up the stairs, he stood outside the door. He turned the knob and walked into the apartment. Clint saw Yelena holding a couple of non-trick arrows.

"What are you doing", he asked with a small smile.

"Cleaning your mess."

"Hey. That mess has been there for years."

"Exactly", she replied before kissing him. "And we are about to have a baby. A baby I do not want playing with these."

"They're not even the dangerous ones. Or the super dangerous ones."

"No, but they are still dangerous for a baby. Even if it is your child."

"She's your child too."

"She is, but I have the sense of mind to hide my dangerous weapons."

Clint chuckled. "Fine, I'll take the arrows to the Triskelion."

Yelena kissed his cheek. "Thank you. You are home early."

"Yeah", Clint said rubbing the back of his neck. "I'm not staying long."

"What do you mean? Are you going back to the Triskelion", she asked as she put the arrows on the counter.

"No." Yelena looked at him. "Daisy may have found Valentina. I'm taking a team to Finland."

"Oh", Yelena said with shock and slight sadness.

"Lena, please don't be upset."

"Why would I be upset", Yelena said faking a smile. A smile she knows Clint can see through. "When do you leave?"

"An hour and a half."

The fake smile instantly faded. "What", she asked with complete sadness.

"I'm sorry", he almost whispered. "I have to be there if it is Valentina."

"I know", she said turning away from him.

"Lena, please", he said reaching for her arm.

"No, don't", she replied stepping away from him. Tears welled in her eyes. "You have been gone so much in the past few months. I have barely seen you, gotten the chance to be with you." Clint felt a tear run down his cheek. "Do you really think I do not know what you are doing? Clint, I may act like I am okay with your fixation on finding Blood but I am not. And what is worse, I can feel you pushing me away and I want to know why."

Clint felt the knife pierce his heart. And it stung. "Because I'm tired, Lena."

Yelena quirked her brow. "What", she asked confused and defeated.

"I'm tired", his voice began to rise. "I am tired of losing. I've lost everyone in my life. I start to call someone my family, I lose that person." Clint wiped a tear from his eye. "I cannot bear the thought of losing either of you", he said in a quieter tone.

"Clint, I..."

"Yelena, you are the most important person in my life. Everyone knows that. Our daughter will be right there with you, but I'm scared that one day, I'm going lose you, or her, or both of you." Yelena did not know what to say. Clint looked at the time on his watch. "I have to go." Clint walked to the door before looking at Yelena. "Please, be careful", he said before leaving.

Yelena did not know what to do. She walked to the the couch and sat down on the arm of the couch. She put a hand on her belly. When the baby kicked, Yelena broke. She felt tears roll down her face as she thought about what just occurred.

LOCATION: Turku, Finland
TIME: 18:43

The door to an old, abandoned hotel burst open. Five SHIELD tactical agents ran in and cleared the lobby. Then Clint and Daisy walked in followed by five more tactical agents.

"Fourteen rooms, six floors. This whole building gets searched", Clint ordered. "Teams of two per floor."

"Yes, Sir", each agent said. The agents split up and went to their floors.

"Let's go to six", Daisy said.

Clint and Daisy took a staircase to the sixth floor of the building. They went to opposite sides of the floor and checked rooms till they met in the middle. They heard over the comms that the agents were finding nothing in the rooms. Clint ordered them to check again. He is taking no chances with Valentina.

When he and Daisy met in the middle, she shook her head. Clint sighed.

"Agent Barton, we're all clear", an agent said.

"Dammit. All teams report", he said.

"Alpha Two clear."

"Alpha Five clear."

"Alpha One clear."

"Alpha Three clear."

"Alpha Six clear", Daisy said. "Sorry, Clint", she said as she adjusted her sling. "I really thought there would be something."

Clint closed his eyes and put his finger on his ear. "All teams make your way to one."

"Yes, Sir", they all said.

Clint and Daisy started walking to the stairs. She tapped his shoulder with her free hand and turned off her comm. Clint turned off his comm. "Yeah?"

"You've been quiet ever since we left the Triskelion. Are you okay?"

"I'm fine", he said wanting to avoid this conversation.

"No, you're not. What's really going on?"

Clint sighed. He did not want to do this but he knows Daisy will not let it go. "I talked with Yelena like you suggested. It did not go well."

"What happened?"

"We got into a fight. I think."

"You think? You don't know?"

"There was a lot going on. She said some things. I said some things."

"What did she say?"

"That I'm a fucking idiot who's choosing the job over her and our daughter."

"Well, aren't you?" Clint looked at her dead in the eye. She rolled her eyes. "Clint", she said stopping him outside the door to the stairs, "I'm not going to sugarcoat this. You are a fucking idiot."

"Thanks", he said. "I really need that today."

Daisy snickered. "Smart ass. You are purposefully picking this job over her. When a Blood mission comes up, you are ready to leave D.C. It's like you can't get away from that city fast enough."

"I realized that already."

"If you did, then why are you doing it?"

"I'm keeping that to myself for right now."

Daisy knew not to pry anymore than she already had. The two agents got downstairs to the first floor with the rest of Alpha Team.

"Initial searches may have been nothing but it does not mean there isn't something here. We tear this place apart, understood?"

"Yes, Sir", they said.

"Good. Grab the hammers and start demolishing the building."

Clint, Daisy, and the tactical team ripped the building apart. They destroyed the furniture and hit the walls with hammers. This is their favorite part of working with Clint; he let's them destroy stuff. The team did this for about two hours.

"Agent Barton, I've got something in 409", an agent said.

"Copy." Clint walked down to the fourth floor. He went to room 409 where he saw an agent hitting the wall and the other was tearing apart the desk. "What did you find?"

"Just this", the one destroying the wall replied. He handed Clint a folder.

Clint took it and opened it. He closed it almost immediately as soon as he opened it. "You open this?"

"No, Sir." Clint looked at the partially damaged wall. "I found it propped up by a screw. It was in the wall."

"She was here." He walked to the wall and ran his hand across the cracks. He examined his fingers and noticed the small and wet white streaks it left behind. "We just missed her."

"How the hell do you know that", Daisy asked just walking into the room.

Clint extended his hand. "Do you see that?"

Daisy looked at his hand. "Dust? Wow, congratulations."

Clint rolled his eyes. "Now who's the smart ass?" Daisy gave him a smug smile. "It's the paint. It's fresh. 24 hours old; give or take 6 hours."

"Damn", Daisy said actually impressed. "How do you know that?"

"Before I recruited the widows, I did renovations as a side job."

"Because being a spy doesn't pay enough?"

"Not to live in D.C. I didn't live on a plane then a base like some people." Daisy nodded. "There is also some slight discoloration on the wall where she tried to repaint the hole she made."

"I'm glad it's not a wasted trip", Daisy said feeling relieved.

Clint turned to the two agents in the room. "Take the rest of this wall down, now."

"Understood, Sir", they said.

The two agents began destroying the wall. Daisy looked pleadingly at Clint. He smiled and nodded to her, giving her the go ahead to help destroy the wall. As a team leader, like Clint, she does not get to do much of the fun stuff. That was the downside when she left Coulson's team to help Clint.

"Agent Barton, Commander Hill is trying to contact", said an agent that just walked into the room. "She said it's urgent."

"Okay. I'll take it in the other room." Clint walked out with the folder in hand. He took out his phone and saw the missed calls from Hill. He dialed her number. "Hey, Hill. What's going on?" He pressed the speaker button.

"Johnson said that you wanted to know about Echo?"

"Yeah. You found something?"

Hill sighed. "It's not good, Clint."

Clint looked behind him and closed the door. "What is it?"

"They're dead, Clint. All of them."

"Son of a bitch", he whispered. "Was it Blood?"

"The recovery team said that the gun shot wounds burned the skin."

"Those damn guns. Did they find anything else?"

"Yes. Not all of Echo died by those guns."

"What does that mean?"

"Some had deep incisions made by a blade."

Clint felt his anger rise. "A Taskmaster?"

"That's my guess. They are on their way home now. The autopsy should tell us more."

"Alright, thanks Hill."

"Anything else you want me to do?"

"No, that should be it."

Clint hung up the phone. He put it back in his pocket and sighed. Once he composed himself on the news about one of his teams, he grabbed the folder. Clint opened it and stared at its contents.

The folder contained within it, photos. The photos scared Clint. They were of him outside various locations he frequents like his apartment, the Triskelion, and his favorite coffee shop. There were also pictures of him and Yelena. The last photo in the folder ticked him off. It was the two of them outside the hospital, and paper-clipped to it was an ultrasound photo.

Clint clenched his fist. "How did she get this", he gritted through his teeth.

He could feel himself becoming angrier. He could actually feel his blood boil. Clint's hand found a lamp on the desk. Without thinking, he picked it up and threw it at the wall. The lamp shade broke while the bulb shattered.

Daisy rushed into the room and saw Clint staring at the destroyed lamp. She was about to say something until she saw the open folder. Her eyes landed on the ultrasound photo paper-clipped to the photo of Clint and Yelena outside the hospital.

She slowly walked over to him and put her hand on his shoulder. He did not flinch away. He did not even move a muscle. Clint continued to stare at the destroyed lamp on the floor.

"She knows", Clint whispered.

Daisy nodded. "I know."

"What do I do, Daisy? How do I tell Yelena this?"

"I don't know, Clint." She watched Clint rub his eyes with his fingers. "What I do know is that Valentina and Blood will not hurt your daughter. They would have to be incredibly stupid to try."

Clint chuckled softly. "Thanks, Daisy."

"Anytime, Clint."

Clint took a deep breath. "You find anything else in the wall?"

"More folders with photos, that's it."

"What photos?"

"I don't know. It was the same person in each photo."

"Can you identify the person?"

The two agents walked back to the room. "Not exactly", Daisy said handing a folder to Clint. He opened it. "He's wearing a mask and a hood."

Clint froze when he saw the first photo. "Oh my god", he said in his mind. The photos are of a figure that cannot be identified by anyone but him. The black suit, gold lining, and a sword. "Are all the photos of this guy?"

"Yes. Unfortunately, none of them show his face."

"Anything else?"

"Not in the wall."

Clint nodded. "Have Alpha Two look for security camera footage from the surrounding buildings." He grabbed the other folders.

"Copy that." Daisy could see a distracted look in his eyes. "You good?"

Clint looked at the folders. "Not even close." He walked out of the room.

Daisy watched him leave. She also noticed a slight spasm in his left hand before he was completely out of sight.

The next four hours were spent tearing down the rest of the walls in the building. Two of the agents did as ordered and gathered hundreds of hours worth of security footage from the surrounding buildings. Daisy supervised it all while Clint sat on an old couch in the lobby. He could not stop staring at the ultrasound photo.

Clint felt like his whole world is crashing down on him. It was a different feeling than before, with GHOST and SHADOW. He already knew that Valentina had photos of the Ghost. It was proven in the file he found on his desk the morning after being attacked in his apartment. He only froze when seeing the photos because Daisy saw them too.

The same file from that morning also had photos of Natasha and Yelena. It scared him before because they were still new to SHIELD. Staring at these particular photos scared him in a completely different way. He thought he was paying enough attention to his surroundings to know he was being watched.

Then there is the photo of him and Yelena outside the hospital. He smiled when he looked at the smile on Yelena's face. He remembers that day perfectly. They figured out they were having a girl and neither of them could be happier. Looking at Yelena's smile soothed him but also broke him.

"Agent Barton, we're all clear", an agent said over comms.

"Understood. All teams to the lobby."

"Copy", the agents replied.

"Alpha Two, come back to the hotel", Clint said.

"Yes, Sir", one of them said.

The flight back to D.C was mostly quiet besides the soft tapping of fingers on a keyboard. Daisy was looking through all the security footage for any signs of Valentina. Most of the tactical team was sleeping and the few that were awake were silent. Clint was in the pilot seat with no co-pilot next to him. Flying alone is something he missed.

Clint's phone buzzed to life on the panel next to him. Looking down, he saw Natasha's name. He quickly sent it to voicemail and sent her a text.

Barton: The team is asleep. Don't want to ruin the serenity. What's up?

Romanov: Yelena is in labor. Where are you?

Barton: Still six hours out. Had problems to sort out. When did she do into labor?

Romanov: Seven hours ago. She wanted to hold off on telling you until she knew you were on your way back.

Barton: Who told her?

Romanov: May. She found out from Hill.

Barton: I'll head to the hospital once we arrive.

Romanov: Good because we need to talk.

That filled him with dread. Clint is only ever scared of Natasha when Yelena is involved. He knew exactly why she wanted to talk to him.

 

Seven Hours Later...

 

Clint ran through the hall of the maternity ward. Lucky for him, it was not that active. Unlucky for him, he did not have time to change. He is still in his uniform, and he does not like wearing the uniform unless at the Triskelion or on a mission.

He saw Natasha standing by a door. He ran over to her. "Hey, Nat."

"Finally", she said with a small smile. "How was the mission? Find Valentina?"

"No, but it wasn't a complete waste."

"Find another Taskmaster?"

"Fortunately no."

"So then what was good about it?"

"I think it was one of her personal hideouts."

"Really? What makes you say that?"

"The files that were found in the wall. They are not good."

"What was in them?"

Clint looked through the door window to see Yelena, on the bed, rubbing her belly. "Us."

Natasha looked at Yelena, then Clint. "Us?"

"Me and Yelena took up one. The Ghost took the others."

"What is in the file with you and Yelena?"

"An ultrasound photo."

Clint watched the color leave Natasha's face. "Oh my god. She knows?"

"Val's smart. She does research on her enemies before attacking."

"Almost sounds like you admire it."

"I did when she worked for SHIELD. Then she threatened you two."

Natasha nodded. "We need to talk before you go in there." Clint took a deep breath. "Yelena told me what you said to her."

"I knew this was coming." He turned to face her. "Alright, let me have it."

Natasha chuckled. "Honestly, I wanted to yell at you. It's what you deserve."

"And now?"

"Now, I'm just angry at you. Yelena did not deserve to be yelled at. She has been through enough. She has put up with this hunter complex of yours for months. It's time you give her a break." Clint closed his eyes and nodded. "I get why you said what you said. You have every right to feel that way, but Yelena has felt the same way too. Until you came along, I was all she had. You mean so much to her, Clint, and you're pushing her away. You're throwing away the greatest person you will ever know. Do not do that to her Clint or there will be hell to pay, do you understand?"

"I understand, Nat. I promise I will not leave her."

Natasha softened. "Good. Now get in there."

Clint smiled. "Thanks, Nat."

Natasha watched Clint walk into the room. She watched him hug Yelena and she happily returned it. She could not understand what they were saying but their smiles told her enough.

 

Thirty-three Hours Later...

 

Yelena had a huge smile on her face looking at the sleeping baby in her arms. She could not stop the tears of joy streaming down her cheeks. Clint shared a smile just as big while looking at the two of them. He was so proud of Yelena.

Clint had an arm around Yelena's shoulders and the other was helping Yelena support their daughter in her arms. He kissed her head causing her to look at him. They smiled at each other before Clint kissed her. Yelena leaned her head against his chest for a minute before focusing her attention back on the baby.

"She is so beautiful", Yelena whispered.

"Yeah, she is. Just like her mama."

Yelena smiled at him. "Be as cute as you want, Clint Barton, you are still getting a vasectomy. I am never doing this again."

Clint laughed softly. "Understood." He kissed her. "I'm sorry I wasn't here when you went into labor."

"It is fine, Clint. What matters is that you were here to see her bring born." Clint smiled. She kissed him. "Besides, Natasha told me what Alpha Team found."

"She did? When?" Clint felt his left hand spasm.

"You went to the apartment to clean yourself up and she told me."

"I know I should've been the one to tell you."

"It's okay." Yelena could still see Clint's guilt. She reached up to her hand on his cheek and make him look at her. "Clint, I am not upset with you about any of it. I do not care how much of the hunt for Blood you hide from me unless it involves me and our daughter. All I do want from you is to know that you will be here when she needs you...And when I need you."

Clint leaned his forehead against Yelena's. "I promise I am going to be right here with you and our girl."

Yelena smiled and kissed him. "Thank you, Clint."

Natasha got back from the Avengers Compound. She was really racking up the miles on the quinjet she used to go between D.C and the Compound. She was really hoping to be back in time, so it shocked her when she saw Yelena holding a baby.

Natasha smiled at the sight. Yelena was stroking the sleeping baby's cheek with her thumb. Clint had his arm around Yelena and he was whispering things that made Yelena smile and laugh. Natasha is so happy for the both of them.

Natasha knocked on the door softly and opened it. "Hey you two. Sorry, you three", she whispered.

"Hey", Clint whispered.

Natasha walked over to them. "You mind?"

"Of course not", Yelena said. She slowly and carefully handed the baby to Natasha.

"She's amazing", Natasha said as she settled the baby in her arms. "What's her name?"

Clint and Yelena looked at each other and smiled. Then they looked at Natasha. "We were thinking Natalie", Clint said.

Natasha looked at them. "If you're okay with it", Yelena asked.

"Why wouldn't I?"

"Because it was one of your cover names", Yelena said before laughing. Clint started laughing too.

"You told her?"

"Oh yeah." Natasha scowled at Clint. "How many things have you told her about me?"

"Fair point."

"Honestly, Natasha", Yelena started, "What do you think?"

"It's perfect", Natasha said before kissing the baby's forehead. "Hey, Nat", she whispered.

 

Three Hours Later...

 

Natasha was sitting on the chair next to the bed. She is currently holding Natalie, who was staring back at her, and started stroking her cheek. Natasha smiled at the cooing baby. If not for Natalie's blue eyes, obviously belonging to her father, Natasha would only see Yelena.

She looked up at Yelena asleep in the bed. The doctors who know Yelena's unique situation said that her body may react differently than most other women after giving birth. They recommended that she stay a few days to ensure she is okay. After arguing with Clint, and losing, she reluctantly agreed.

Clint left the room to let Yelena sleep. He got a text from Coulson about needing to talk. Clint walked to the cafe on the first floor of the hospital. He walked in and saw Coulson sitting at a table with a cup of coffee while reading a newspaper.

"You know the news is on your phone, right?"

Coulson looked up. "Says the one who uses an actual notepad to take notes."

Clint laughed. "Point taken." He sat down.

"How are Yelena and Natalie?"

Clint smiled at the thought of them. "They're good."

Coulson smiled. "That's great, Barton. I'm really happy for you both."

"Thanks, Coulson."

"By the way, Daisy want to come by tomorrow and see the baby."

"Of course", Clint said while nodding. "Did she tell you what was found?"

"She did. That's why I'm here."

Clint sat back in his chair. "Daisy saw pictures of the Ghost."

"Yes, but he had his mask on which is the important part, Clint. Do you think she suspects anything?"

"I don't think so. She has seen me fight the Taskmaster but she has never seen the Ghost fight."

"How close of a call did you have in Cuba? Daisy said she had never seen you fight like that before."

Clint saw his hand spasm. "It was a close call."

"How close?"

"I killed the Taskmaster. You tell me."

"He had to be killed. You had no other choice."

"It was justified", a voice said. Clint looked around the room.

"What is it", Coulson asked.

Clint looked back at him. "What?"

"Are you okay? You look like you saw a ghost."

"I didn't see a ghost, Coulson."

Realization slowly sank into Coulson. "You heard the Ghost?"

Clint nodded. "Yeah. The photos didn't help and I think that was the point."

"What do you mean?"

"Valentina is not stupid enough to hide the files in the wall. I was too distracted before to see it but now that I think about it, those folders were easy to find on purpose."

"I'm still lost. What is that purpose?"

"To release me", the Ghost said. This time, the spasm came from Clint's leg.

"To release him", Clint said. "My anger feeds him. My fear, my guilt, all of my negative emotions feed him."

"You think Val is purposefully feeding the Ghost?"

"It all started with the file that was on my desk with photos of the Widows and the Ghost."

Coulson started thinking. "Makes sense. What would she gain, though?"

Clint felt the spasm in his hand again. "I don't know."

Meanwhile, Natasha was still in the chair next to Yelena's bed. Yelena was still asleep and Natalie had fallen back asleep in her aunt's arms. Natasha could not keep the smile off her face while admiring the sleeping baby. She started stroking Natalie's cheek with her thumb.

Natasha looked up when Clint silently walked back into the room ten minutes later. He walked over to the bed and kissed Yelena's cheek. He looked at Natasha who smiled at him.

"You're really lucky", Natasha whispered to Natalie.

She slowly stood up and carefully handed Natalie to Clint. He slowly sat down in the chair previously occupied by Natasha. She walked to the door and turned around. She smiled when she saw Clint kiss his daughter's forehead. Clint looked up. He mouthed a 'thank you' before she nodded and walked out to give them time alone.

Notes:

This may not have been what I was originally planning on for this chapter but I like the way it turned out. The next chapter will be more action packed, I promise.

Also, I noticed my earlier chapters flowed better while more recent ones just end more abruptly. Which do you all prefer?

Chapter 21: Change in the Air

Notes:

I really hope you all enjoy this chapter. Sorry it's late. There will be a chapter next week.

Fourteen Years Ago...

Clint stared blankly at the older woman in front of him. "You want me to wear what?"

"I want you to wear EKG sensors."

"Why?"

"Clint, you are capable of doing something truly magnificent. So far beyond that of any other human being. I want to know how do it."

"And monitoring my heart rate will help you do that?"

"Yes, but I won't just be monitoring your heart. I will also monitor your brain."

"Okay. Why do you need to know how I do it?"

"If we can pinpoint what in your brain is making you capable of doing what you do, we may be able to integrate that into technology. We can a suit that can do what you can do."

Clint looked down. "How dangerous will that be? Maybe it's a good thing only I can do this."

"Think about how much safer the world can be when more than one agent can do what you do."

Clint thought for a second. "Let's get me hooked up."

She smiled. "Good choice, Clint."

Just then, Coulson walked into the room. "What's going on here?"

"What do you think", Clint asked as the first sensor was placed on him.

Coulson became annoyed. "Really, Val? You know Fury doesn't want you doing this without me present."

"Good thing you walked in then", she said. "Care to help with the sensors?"

 

Present Day...

 

Clint stared at the photos that were spread out all over his coffee table. Each photo was of a building. On top of them was a photo of one room in the building. On top of that were photos of files and weapons found inside the rooms.

The buildings were recently raided by SHIELD teams. Each building was in connection to Valentina's possible location. Each building raid was also a failure minus the files and weapons.

The most recent raid that took place, in Canada, brought back proof that Valentina and Poseidon's Blood is working on Phase 2 of the armor. Clint knows that Phase 2 will mean that SHIELD will have an even harder time taking them down.

Looking at the photos, kicks up memories of when Valentina would experiment on him. To him, experiment is the right word anyway. Clint shook his head to stop the memories; to force himself to look away.

"You have spent days looking at that", Yelena said as she sat next to him on the couch.

"And I may spend a few more days looking at these."

"What are you hoping to find by looking at places you know she is not?"

"I don't know." Clint put his face in his hands. He turned his head to look at Yelena. "Am I chasing empty leads?" He felt his hand spasm slightly.

"You are good at finding answers in empty leads. Somehow you pull it off."

Clint smirked. "What proof do you have of that?"

"Literally everything that has gotten SHIELD to this point. When the Blood investigation started, you found out who they were. It was you who knew about the explosives. You tracked the bomb shipments to Haiti. Any other agent would have given up searching. You did not."

"Yeah. Well, she sent people to kill me and threatened you and Natasha. I guess I had a bigger incentive to find them."

"And you still do." Just then, the two started to hear crying over the baby monitor. "I just put that little monster down", Yelena whined.

Clint laughed. "Want me to get her?"

Yelena looked at her watch. "You have a therapy session in thirty minutes."

"Dammit, you remembered."

Yelena shook her head. "You promised you would start going again."

"I've been going for two months."

"Go", she said as she stood and walked to the baby's room.

Clint smiled and stood. He knows there is no winning this fight.

He got into his SUV and drove to his therapist's office. When he started going again, two months ago, he went to the same woman he was forced to speak with after New York. Clint has not seen her for years and she was surprised to get his call.

When Clint arrived at the office, he sat in the SUV for a minute. Once he gathered his composure, he went inside. He waited ten minutes before going to Tanya's office.

"Good morning, Clint. How are you?"

"Morning, Tanya. I'm good. You?"

Tanya smiled. "I'm good too, thanks for asking." Clint took a seat. Tanya sat in her chair. "So Clint, how are you feeling? And remember, you and I don't do well with lies."

Clint smiled. "I can honestly say I am feeling okay."

"Good", Tanya said writing something down. "And how are Yelena and Natalie?"

"They're both good."

"Perfect." She wrote something else down. "So, having a baby at home is not giving you any problems?"

"No. Why would it?"

"Because you have a long history of nightmares, Clint. Nightmares that have a habit of occurring in the worst possible time. I have children of my own, so I know that babies cry bloody murder in the middle of the night."

"Natalie does cry in the middle of the night but it doesn't effect me negatively."

"Does it effect your work?"

"If it did, someone would have called me out."

"And no one has?"

"No. The people who know I have a daughter have not called me out."

Tanya nodded. "How's work in general?"

"It's been busy."

"Busy?"

"Yeah...busy."

Tanya rolled her eyes. "Cut the shit, Barton. Director Fury cleared me for all of it, again. I know what you are working on at SHIELD. So I ask again, how is work going?" Tanya took notice of the spasm in Clint's hand at the question.

"It's been difficult."

"How so?"

Clint looked down at his clenched fist. "I feel like I'm going in circles. SHIELD teams would infiltrate hideouts but that would prove useless. When I think we found their leader, it would be nothing. I'm spending a lot of time trying to discover her real location but she's five steps ahead of us."

"How much time do you spend searching for her?"

Clint shrugged his shoulders. "I don't know. Most of the day, maybe."

"How much time does that leave for leisure?"

"I'm not sure I really thought about it."

"You have a daughter at home now. You just admitted to not spending time with her. Maybe she can help clear your head."

"Clear my head?"

"Yes. Clint, you have so much eating you up inside that your mind never has a chance to be quiet. Without that quiet, the heart begins to race, the nightmares become severe, and you push away the ones you love."

"All because I don't have time to be quiet?"

"Giving our minds time to be quiet, time away from what makes them loud like work, especially your work, gives us a break from reality. And based on your job, you are constantly around reality. So yes, time with Yelena, Natalie, anyone you love, and no job distractions, will quiet your mind and give you a break." Clint nodded. Then Tanya's phone started buzzing. "Excuse me, I thought I turned that off."

"It's alright."

While Tanya looked at her phone, Clint contemplated what she said. He remembered the first time he held Natalie in his arms. It was the first time in a long time he felt truly calm.

"Oh my god", Tanya said quietly.

Clint looked at her. "Everything okay?"

"No. My son is in Lagos, Nigeria with a friend and there was an incident where they were working."

"What kind of incident?"

"An explosion. My son said the Avengers are there too."

Clint did not have to hear anymore to know the Avengers caused it. "Is your son okay?"

"Yes, he's fine. So is his friend."

"Good", he said while rubbing his chin and thinking about what happened.

 

Four Days Later... At Peggy Carter's Funeral...

 

"Who all signed", Steve asked Natasha as the two stood in the empty church.

"Tony. Rhodey. Vision."

"Clint?"

Natasha smiled. "That son of a bitch got to avoid it completely."

Steve quirked his brow. "How?"

"He's a government agent. Clint has made it clear he's not technically an Avenger anymore and he's not enhanced in any way. No grounds to make him sign."

Steve smirked. "Leave it to him to find a way out."

"He's good at that."

"Wanda?"

"TBD." Steve looked down. "I'm off to Vienna for the signing of the Accords. There's plenty of room on the jet." Steve sighed. "Just because it's the path of least resistance doesn't mean it's the wrong path. Staying together is more important than how we stay together."

"What are we giving to do it? I'm sorry, Nat. I can't sign it."

"I know."

Steve nodded. "Then what are you doing here?"

Natasha sighed. "I didn't want you to be alone." She pulled him into a hug that he reciprocated.

 

A Few Hours Later... At the Avengers Compound...

 

Clint walked through the doors to the lounge area of the main Compound building. He took notice of how neat and quiet everything was at the moment. He knows most of the Avengers are in Vienna but Wanda and Vision stayed behind. 'Stayed behind' being the phrase Natasha said Tony had used. So he knows it was not by choice.

He had only one reason to be at the Compound. Clint walked to the young woman's room. A few feet from the open door, he heard the soft sounds of a guitar. Once he got to the door, he saw Wanda sitting on her bed, gliding her fingers over the guitar strings. Clint knocked softly.

Wanda looked at the door. "Hey, Clint." She set the guitar down. "What are you doing here?"

"I came to check on you", he said as he sat next to her on the bed.

Wanda gave him a sad smile. "You don't need to do that, Clint."

"I know I don't but I wanted to anyway."

"I guess you saw the news?"

"Yeah."

"Then you know it was my fault."

"What? The Hydra agent who strapped a bomb to himself in hopes of blowing up Captain America is your fault? I don't think so."

"Don't do that, Clint."

"Do what?"

"Convince me it wasn't my fault."

"Then how about convincing you it's not as bad as you think?"

Wanda chuckled. "How would you do that?"

"More people would have been hurt or killed if that bomb blew while on the ground. You and Steve would have died." Wanda sighed. "Wanda, people are going to die in this job. There's no escaping that. We are never going to be able to save everyone."

"Why not", Wanda asked looking at him.

"Because it's not possible to save everyone. When I joined SHIELD, I was told one thing, it's for the greater good."

"What does that mean?"

"Have you heard of the greater good theory?" Wanda shook her head. "It's the ethical belief that an action is recommendable if it brings about the greatest good. So, a few losses means nothing compared to all the lives saved. It's used among SHIELD agents to make decisions easier."

"It does not sound easy."

"Sometimes it's not." Clint put his hand on Wanda's back. "Beating yourself up over the lives you couldn't save is not healthy, Wanda. Believe me, I should know."

Wanda smiled. It was a genuine, sincere smile. "Thanks, Clint."

Clint smiled. "You're welcome, Wanda."

Vision knocked on the door. "Excuse the intrusion, but there is something you must see, Clint."

"What is it?"

Vision grabbed the remote to Wanda's TV. "This", the AI said as he clicked a button.

The three watched the black screen became colorful with a building with fire and smoke rising from it. Clint read the caption below it, 'The Sokovia Accords Signing Interrupted By Explosion'. His eyes widened when he remembered that Natasha was there.

"Natasha", Clint said under his breath. Clint grabbed out his phone and found Natasha in his contacts. He put it on speaker.

"I'm okay, Clint", Natasha said right away.

Clint let out a sigh of relief at hearing her voice. "Are you sure?"

"A few bruises and scratches. Nothing major."

"Good. I'm watching the news and they're saying it was Sergeant Barnes. Where's Steve?"

Natasha sighed. "I don't know. He was still in London when I left."

"You think he will go after him?"

"Unfortunately, I do. The real question is, will he let us help?"

"Keep me updated, Nat. I'm here if you need me."

"Thanks, Clint."

Clint hung up the phone. That's when he got a text from Coulson saying he and his team is going to Vienna to help with the investigation. He was thinking about going too until he realized that Steve might go after Barnes and get himself arrested. Sam might be loyal enough to be arrested too. His skills were better used in the Compound.

Thinking about that, Clint called Coulson. He was thankful that the older agent understood the concerns. Clint told Coulson to also be ready; just in case he finds something Natasha wants him to look into.

The hunt for the Winter Soldier proved much harder than anyone, even Captain America, thought. After the bombing, Tony and Rhodey were ordered, by Secretary Ross, to join the Agent Everett Ross in Berlin. Natasha met them there.

The three of them, plus other U.N government agencies, searched unsuccessfully for the soldier. It was not until a chase involving Captain America, Falcon, and a man in a black cat suit that he was captured. As Clint figured, Steve and Sam got arrested.

Natasha called Clint as soon as the doctor who was going to evaluate Barnes arrived at the building.

"Something about this doesn't feel right", Natasha said quietly. She did not want to distract everyone from watching the man speak with Barnes.

"Your instincts are normally on point, Nat. Mirror the evaluation to the Compound computers", Clint said already at the Compound's main computer desk. "Let me see what I can do."

Natasha walked to a part of the office where no one was working. She took a jump drive out of her pocket and plugged it into the computer. She typed a few keys and the live footage was seen on the screen at the Compound.

"You see it?"

"Yeah. What's the problem?"

"I don't know. Everything. Barnes never put up a fight. Steve said he didn't do it. And I don't trust the doctor for some reason."

Clint started pressing buttons. "Let me run facial recognition on the doctor." That took about five seconds. "Alright, got his face. What's the name of the doctor who's supposed to evaluate him?"

Natasha turned her head to make sure no one was looking at her. She looked through the visitor log. "A Doctor Neil Broussard."

"Shit. Get Cap on the phone now!"

"Why? What is it", she asked turning towards the cube office where Steve, Sam, and Sharon Carter were standing.

"That's not the doctor."

Suddenly, the whole office went dark. Then a loud alarm went off and red lights blinked all over.

"What's going on", Clint asked hearing the commotion.

"There's been a power outage. Steve and Sam took off towards Barnes, I'm assuming."

"Damn."

"I have to go, Clint. See what else you can find on the fake doctor."

"Copy."

That's exactly what Clint did when Natasha hung up. He looked into anything connected to the name Helmet Zemo. He also ran a face searching software to find Zemo in security camera footage. Under Broussard's name, Clint discovered a hotel room. He called Coulson about that.

Coulson kicked in the door to the hotel room. He held his icer out in front of him. Jemma was right behind him with her icer out too. Coulson cleared the main room. Jemma went down the small hall and stopped at the bathroom.

"Coulson", Jemma yelled.

Coulson ran to her. "Yeah?" He looked in the bathroom and saw the body laying in the tub. "That's not good."

Coulson took photos of the body while Jemma investigated the rest of the room. She found prosthetics on the desk. Like Coulson, she took photos of it and sent them to Clint.

Natasha called Clint again when everything calmed down. Sam chased the fake doctor but failed to apprehend him. Steve got Barnes but War Machine and Iron Man got to them before they got out of the water. Steve and Tony were currently yelling at one another while Sam and Rhodey watched the two argue. Natasha finally intervened.

"Clint has information", Natasha said stepping between the two Avengers.

"What are you talking about", Tony asked.

"Clint is at the Compound and he's been looking into the doctor who spoke with Barnes."

"How does he know about that man", Agent Ross asked as he and Sharon entered the room. "It just happened."

"I mirrored the evaluation to Clint before the power outage."

"You did what", Agent Ross asked. "Do you realize the number of laws you broke?"

"I really don't care. And neither does Clint. He found important information on the man."

"Information that proves Barnes' innocence", Clint said from Natasha's phone.

Everyone looked at Natasha's phone. By then, T'Challa, the man in the cat suit, joined the group.

"Agent Barton, I hope you have something good", Agent Ross said.

"Don't worry, Shiny. I do."

"Did he just call me 'Shiny'", he asked looking at the others. Natasha smiled. "What does that mean?"

"It's SHIELD talk for a government agent who doesn't know anything", Sharon said.

"What did you find, Clint", Steve asked.

"I sent it to your phone, Tony", he said. Tony grabbed out his phone and activated the hologram so everyone could see it. "Everyone, I like to introduce you to your bomber, Colonel Helmet Zemo."

"Colonel", Rhodey asked.

"He's Sokovian Intelligence. He was leader of Echo Scorpion, a Sokovia covert kill squad." The five Avengers in the room looked at each other. "Right after the bombing, the U.N sent Doctor Neil Broussard to evaluate Barnes but was met in the parking garage this morning by Zemo."

"That's all coincidental, Barton", Agent Ross said. "Have anything concrete proving it was this Zemo guy?"

"I was getting to that until you interrupted. Coulson's team was in Vienna to help so I sent him and Simmons to a hotel room under Broussard's name. They discovered Broussard's body in the bathtub and prosthetics matching one James Buchanan Barnes. How's that for concrete?"

Steve took a deep breath.

"Why go after Barnes", Sharon asked. "What would he gain from that?"

Everyone became silent.

"He saw his chance to destroy the Avengers", Clint said.

"What are you talking about, Clint", Sam asked.

"Well, since the very beginning, the Avengers could never stay on the same page for more than five minutes. The first time the team was together was on the helicarrier when I attacked it. The five of you were fighting and Tony and Cap were ready to beat each other senseless. Then Ultron happens. Tony's fault. We were already disagreeing about the scepter and Ultron when Vision comes around and you two end up fighting again. Zemo knew the Avengers would be on opposite sides of the Accords and saw them as his chance to further separate the Avengers."

"But why Bucky", Steve asked.

"Because of your friendship to him, Steve", Natasha said. "He knew we would be separated on the Accords, so he uses Barnes as a pawn in order to make the U.N go after him. Zemo also knows that you would not let anyone hurt him. Not even Tony." Steve stared at her. "You would fight anyone to protect him."

"Well that's methodical", Rhodey said. Everyone nodded.

"Agent Barton, have you sent any of this to Secretary Ross", Agent Ross asked.

"I have, but only the concrete evidence. Finding Zemo may be the only way to confirm my theory."

"The only problem is we don't know where he is going", Rhodey said.

"Or how he took control of Bucky", Steve said.

"If he took control of Barnes", Ross said. "He may have done all that by choice."

"I might be able to answer both questions", Clint said. "There's only one person that can confirm it though."

"Let me guess", Natasha said. "Barnes?"

"Yep."

The five Avengers, plus Ross, Sharon, and T'Challa, walked to the basement where Barnes was being held. There were six heavily armed CIA agents watching him. He was sitting on a chair with his metal arm pinned in a industrial vice.

Steve walked toward the weak and barely conscious man while everyone else stayed a few yards back. "Which Bucky am I talking to?"

He looked at Steve. "Your mom's name was Sarah." He started chuckling. "You used to wear newspapers in your shoes."

"Can't read that in a museum", Steve said.

"Just like that, we're supposed to be cool", Sam asked.

"What did I do", Bucky asked.

"Enough."

"Oh, God, I knew this would happen. Everything Hydra put inside me is still there. All he had to do was say the goddamn words."

Steve turned around and nodded to Natasha. She walked toward the men and set the phone down on a table. "On the phone is Clint Barton, an agent with SHIELD. He's the one who proved your innocence", Steve said. "He has some information that you can confirm."

Bucky nodded. "What do you want to know?"

"You said "all he had to do was say the goddamn words"; do you mean the words from the book with the diagram of your arm?"

"Yes."

"What happens to you when those words are said?"

"I lose my self-control. I don't have the ability to think for myself. Whoever says the words, has complete control of me."

"Did he ask you any questions? Specifically, questions about Siberia?"

Bucky's eyes widened. He looked at Steve in surprise. "He did. How do you know about that?"

"Pierce had a few files on the Winter Soldier Program."

"What's in Siberia", Steve asked.

"It's where I was kept."

"Why would he want to know that", Sam asked.

"Because Bucky is not the only Winter Soldier", Clint said.

Steve heard the group of people behind him begin to whisper followed by someone leaving. "Who are they", he asked.

"They're the most elite death squad. More kills than anyone in Hydra history. And that was before the serum."

"They all turn out like you", Sam asked.

"Worse. They speak 30 languages, can hide in plain sight, infiltrate, assassinate, destabilize. They can take a whole country down in one night. You'd never see them coming."

Clint muted his side of the call so he could still hear them but they could not hear him. His mind began going a million miles a minute. His heart started beating very fast and his breath shortened. Everything Bucky was saying sounded so much like the Ghost.

His heart beat faster. Placing two fingers on his neck, he felt a very irregular pulse. Clint got out of the chair and ran outside. Once outside, he fell to his knees trying to catch his breath. It took a minute but his breathing and heart rate began to stabilize.

Clint looked out at the open field of green in front of the Compound. It was calming for him given the current situation. The calm disappeared when he saw something in the distance. A figure in all black was standing at the gate. He did not have to look closer to know it was the Ghost.

Shaking it off, Clint walked back inside to where he was working. When he arrived at the desk, he heard arguing on the phone. Based on the voices, it was Steve, Tony, and Agent Ross. Sam and Rhodey occasionally saying something.

"What's going on", Clint asked.

The arguing continued. "Finally you say something", Natasha said. "Where were you?" She took the phone off speaker when Clint did not respond. "You had a panic attack didn't you?"

Clint took his phone off speaker. "Yeah. Everything Barnes said got to me."

"I was wondering if that was gonna happen. You okay?"

"I'm good now. What's happening there?"

"Steve wants to go to Siberia with Bucky to handle the other soldiers and Zemo. Tony and Ross are saying the opposite."

"What if Tony went with them?"

"Ross shut that down real quick."

Clint thought for a second. "Give me five minutes. I have an idea."

Natasha hung up the phone. She continued to listen to the pointless argument.

A few minutes later, Agent Ross got a call. "This is Ross." Everyone looked at him. "Ma'am, they violated the..." Ross sighed. "Yes, Ma'am."

"Bad call", Sharon asked when Ross hung up.

Ross looked at the Avengers. "You must have friends in high places because the World Security Council approved your mission."

Natasha smirked. She knew Clint had a great plan. "Who's all going", she asked.

"The Council approved Captain Rogers, Stark, and...Barnes."

The three went to Siberia less than an hour later. Agent Ross, ordered by Secretary Ross, told the others to be on standby. That meant Natasha, Rhodey, and Sam returning to Upstate New York. T'Challa ignored the order and went to Siberia. His blood boiling for revenge for his father.

When Clint got a text from Natasha, he smiled. He knew his call to the Council would give the others what they needed. Not many people knew he has a direct line to the Council but it is used only for specific emergencies.

He stood from his chair at the desk and walked to the window. Clint envied the Avengers for the amazing view from the windows of the Compound. The Triskelion has a great view of D.C but Clint prefers the nature view.

Clint saw the luscious green and open, blue sky. His mind was still stuck on what Bucky had said about the other Winter Soldiers. He felt a presence next to him. It made him shiver. It also made him spasm.

"How much longer do you think you can hold me down? I can take control at any moment. You've lost, Clint. Enjoy this time while you can because I. Am. Back."

 

Two Hours Later...

 

Clint opened the door to his and Yelena's apartment. That thought still made him smile. Unfortunate for him, the feeling was not enough to mask the anguish he felt. He knows the Ghost is right. He has lost control of his more dangerous self.

Shaking the thought out of his mind, hoping for a moment's peace, he instantly took notice of the quiet. He carefully walked to the baby's room. Clint smiled when he saw his daughter sleeping peacefully in her crib. Then he remembered what the Ghost had said, "enjoy this time while you can ". He closed his eyes. If he does not have much time as himself, he will enjoy it.

He walked out of Natalie's room. He proceeded to the bedroom. There he saw Yelena also asleep. Clint leaned against the door frame and stared at her. She looked so peaceful. It's been three months since Yelena gave birth and Clint was impressed at how well she was doing at taking care of Natalie. She has also been working out; preparing to get back into the field.

After spending a few moments admiring the sleeping woman, Clint went back to the living room. He walked to the kitchen to get a water bottle when he saw a folder on the counter. It had a SHIELD logo and said 'Mission Report: Echo Team' on top.

Clint opened it and read the small note from Hill.

'Finally received the completed mission report about Echo Team'

He grabbed a water bottle and the folder and walked to the couch. He read through the report and was instantly filled with dread. He sent the team to their graves. Clint put the report down and put his head in his hands.

"I killed them", he said outloud.

"Killed who?"

Clint's head shot up. He was looking at a clearly still tired Yelena. "Did I wake you?"

"No." Yelena walked to the couch and cuddled against Clint. "Who did you kill?"

"Echo Team."

She looked at him. "They were killed in Berlin, I thought."

Clint nodded. "They were, but I just got the mission report from Hill. They infiltrated a suspected hideout and got into a fire fight. They never got out."

"They were doing their jobs, Clint. You did not kill them."

"They tried to go out the same way they came but it was blocked. Blood agents were only the first wave. A Taskmaster killed whoever was left."

"How is that your fault?"

"Because I was originally planning on going to Berlin. Echo One made a case that they haven't been in a good fight in a while so I let them go. I didn't think a Taskmaster would be there."

Yelena shifted herself to straddle his lap. She palmed his face with both hands. "You did nothing wrong. Their deaths are not your fault. You could not have known a Taskmaster would be there." She placed a soft kiss on his lips. "Do not beat yourself up over this, Clint. The agents you pick to fill those teams know the price to helping you."

Clint nodded slowly. "It just makes me remember why I don't work with teams."

Yelena rubbed Clint's cheeks with her thumbs. "Maybe what you need right now is a distraction."

Clint smiled. "You just want me to shut up, don't you?"

"About work, yes. You need a break from all this and I can help you achieve it."

"How?"

Yelena leaned her forward to his ear. She whispered something that made Clint's eyes dilate and fill his body with lust. Then she bit his ear and he knew what was about to happen next.

 

In Siberia...

 

Steve helped Bucky stand. He leaned his injured friend against the concrete wall. Steve turned to look at Tony, on the floor, with blood on his face. Steve's eyes traveled to the destroyed arc reactor. Tony stared back at him.

"The world can't afford us being separated, Tony." The man in the iron suit stayed silent. Steve let the shield drop to the floor with a loud ding. He took off his helmet. Tony could see sincerity in Steve's eyes. "I know I hurt you Tony. I guess I thought by not telling you about your parents I was sparing you, but I can see now I was really sparring myself and I'm sorry. I hope one day you can forgive me, but right now, we need to find a way to stay together."

Tony struggled to stand up but used the beam to support him. He carefully contemplated what Steve said. He looked at Bucky who was struggling to stay awake. Tony then looked down at the shield and helmet on the ground. He walked forward and slowly lifted the shield. Then he looked at Steve. "What do we do about him? Ross won't let him off."

Steve turned to look at Bucky. The one armed soldier looked at his friend. "I don't know", Steve said.

"I might be able to help with that."

The three men looked up and saw T'Challa standing there. He was holding Zemo by his jacket. The angered Sokovian had his hands in zip-ties behind his back.

"Are you sure", Steve asked.

T'Challa nodded.

 

Elsewhere in the World...

 

Valentina walked through the doors of the building. She had two Poseidon's Blood agents following her. Both had tablets and were communicating with other agents.

"Ma'am, our agents in the Rising Tide are close to breaking through the firewall."

"Good. Inform me when they've broken through. We need those security codes and access to their cameras."

"Yes, Ma'am." That agent walked away from them.

"Are you sure this will work", the other agent asked. "We don't even know if we can trust our informant."

"Are you questioning my judgement, 145?"

"No, Ma'am."

"Good."

"I thought it was melted down for use in other bombs?"

"That's what the U.S government wants people to believe. Once we get access to it, we can put our plan into action." They walked into a huge factory room. "Soon, SHIELD will fall", she said as she watched multiple agents work on large missiles. "And Clint can't do a thing to stop it."

Notes:

Captain America Civil War is one of my favorite Marvel movies but for the sake of the story (and upcoming chapters) I cannot follow the splitting up story line.

Thank you everyone for all the support!

Chapter 22: The Ghost Inside

"My C.O and I were in the second humvee when the one in front of us blew up. That one had the rest of my team inside", Clint said.

"And you think that that was the final piece of the puzzle", Tanya asked.

"Based on what I did after, yes." Clint sighed as he closed his eyes. "That was his first time out."

"And you did nothing to try to cage him after?"

"I did something. I joined EOD after that night. That kept him docile for a while."

"Then SHIELD?"

"Yes."

Tanya wrote something down. "Are you in contact with any of your old Marine friends besides Sam Wilson?"

"There was someone I talked with when I left but we haven't talked in years."

"Who is he?"

"Vanessa Wolfe", Clint said with a small smile.

"And who is she to you?"

"She was my best friend. I trusted her with my life. She was the only one I could confide in the morning after the attack."

"She sounds very important."

Clint nodded. "She was."

"What made you lose contact with her?"

Clint turned his head to look out the window. He took a second before answering. "I didn't want her to know what I had become."

"An Agent of SHIELD?"

"A murderer." Clint turned his head to look at Tanya. "She knew I was with SHIELD but she didn't know what I did."

Tanya nodded. "When did you last talk to her?"

"Maybe three years after joining SHIELD."

She wrote something down. "When you came back from your tour, how did you feel?"

Clint quirked his brow. "Why?"

"Just answer the question, Clint."

Clint clenched his fist at the sudden memory. "Not good."

"Even after your EOD tour?"

"Yeah. It must've screwed me up more."

"Did you ever tell Vanessa about your EOD tour?"

"She's the one who suggested it. She checked up on me regularly. I was calm and stable when I spoke to her."

"What do you mean by stable?"

"I don't know. I guess I had a clear mind. The Ghost wasn't itching to get out."

"It sounds like she was more to you than a friend."

"In some ways, yes."

"Have you ever considered calling Vanessa? She may do you some much needed good."

"I did shortly after I recruited Yelena and Natasha. I wanted to tell her that I was okay. I wanted to tell her the truth. Tell her everything I wanted to say before I left the Marines."

"What stopped you?"

"Guilt, I guess. Shame. I was scared to see her reaction. I was afraid that she wouldn't be able to look me in the eye."

"Do you still carry guilt or shame from the night your team was killed?"

"Maybe some." Clint quirked his brow. He thought they were passed that. "Why?"

"Clint, you have a lot of people who care about you. Some of them know the truth and some don't." Clint nodded. "When we experience certain traumas, the only thing that can help us is other people who have been there. Or even experienced the exact same trauma."

Clint interrupted her. "Why do you keep pushing me to call Vanessa?"

Tanya smiled. "Of course you knew that is what I was going for." Clint smirked. "The people you work with, confide in, have had experiences similar to you, but that night left a very different scar than others of your past."

"How do you know that?"

"Because every time you speak of your past, you always go back to that night."

"Oh", Clint said slightly surprised.

"That night left a scar that Vanessa can help heal. She was there for you the morning after. You told her what you did without hesitation. She has a specific experience with you about that night that others do not." Tanya looked at her watch. "Our time is up. Clint, please consider calling her. I know it sounds odd but you never know the good it could do."

Clint nodded. "Thank you, Tanya", he said as he stood. He extended his hand.

"Of course, Clint." She shook his hand. "I'm here whenever you need."

Clint nodded before walking out of her office. He walked to his SUV and climbed in. He had a lot to think about. When he sat down and closed the door, he grabbed his phone. Clint noticed no new messages so he assumed everything is okay. With no mission alerts, he decided to head home.

The whole way to the apartment, Clint kept thinking about what Tanya had told him. A part of him does want to call Vanessa. The part of him is the part that missed her. Another part of him still wants to leave her out of his life. That is the part that feels she is better off without him.

 

Meanwhile... Somewhere in the Desert...

 

"Commence test 3", a scientist said.

"Copy that", another said. "Adding the carbon dioxide."

"Wait", the scientist yelled.

The other looked up. "What?"

The two scientists heard yelling followed by multiple gunshots. The scientist holding the clipboard ran to the door and looked through the window of their lab. He saw multiple scientists running, some of them falling to the ground with gunshots to their heads and backs.

He was about to lock the door but it swung open, knocking him to the ground. Two large men, wearing tactical gear, walked into the room. Without hesitating, the two men shot the scientists. They exited the lab and joined the other ten men dressed like them.

"It's not out here", one of them said.

"It must be in the cold storage unit like the buyer said", another had said. "You three go check. The rest of us will finish clearing the site. No survivors."

"Yes, Sir", they said.

Three of the men went to the stairs leading to the basement. The rest of them continued to walk through the facility, killing whoever they saw.

 

Washington D.C...

 

Clint walked through the door to his apartment. The sound of laughter instantly filled his ears. He looked to the living room and saw Yelena and Natasha playing with Natalie. He smiled when he heard the giggle of his baby daughter.

Natasha looked at Clint. "Hey, how was therapy?"

"It was good."

"Helpful", Yelena asked.

"Very", he said as he walked past them to the bedroom.

Natasha and Yelena looked at each other but shrugged it off. They put their attention back on Natalie.

Clint sat down on the bed. He let the laughter from the living room fill his ears. He closed his eyes as he listened. The therapy session slowly taking over his mind. Clint stood from the bed and walked to the closet. He grabbed the box labeled 'BoP' and lifted the lid.

He took out the photo that was on top. It was of him and a woman. The name on her uniform said 'Wolfe'. Clint smiled at the photo. As much as he enjoys what he has now, a part of him misses Vanessa. He put the photo back in the box and leaned against the wall. He rested his head against the wall.

When the sisters discovered the box, that photo was not in it. Clint found it in the box of GHOST files. The photo was in his personnel file. Clint put it in the box after they asked him about it. He did not want them asking questions about Vanessa. And he had no idea how to tell them.

Clint heard his phone vibrate on his nightstand. He walked over and read the mission alert from Fury. He quickly grabbed what he needed. Halfway through, Yelena came into the room and grabbed some things too. They said goodbye to Natasha and Natalie and left for the Triskelion.

"I do not know if I can do this", Yelena said looking out the window of the SUV. "This is my first mission since I started showing."

Clint looked at her. "You're going to be fine, Lena."

"It does not feel right leaving her." She looked at him. "What if we miss something?"

"Then Natasha will tell us. She'll probably record it for us on her phone. Besides, Natalie is only three months old. The likelihood of us missing something is small." Yelena nodded. Clint reached over and grabbed her hand. "On the plus side, it's been a while since everyone has seen you. You've lost the baby weight faster than any woman that I know of."

Yelena laughed. "Really?"

"If what I said last night proves anything", he said before smirking and laughing. She began laughing too. "Believe me, they're gonna be impressed."

"Thank you, Clint."

He brought her hand up to his lips and kissed it. "Anytime, Lena."

When the two arrived at the Triskelion, they changed into their uniforms. Clint missed seeing Yelena in her uniform. Her black spandex, thigh holster, widow bite bracelets, and her vest really turned him on."

Many of the SHIELD agents welcomed Yelena back. Clint forgot that most of SHIELD thought she was on an undercover mission. The few agents who knew the truth also welcomed her back with open arms, especially Bobbi and Hunter. Jemma also gave Yelena a hug when they saw each other. The three agents from Coulson's team instantly taking notice of how good Yelena looks.

The two agents walked into Fury's office to see Coulson and Daisy speaking with Fury. The three looked at them when they entered.

"Damn, Yelena. You look amazing", Daisy said. "You had Natalie six months ago. How did you do that?"

Yelena smiled. "The drive to have this body back happened the day I gave birth."

Daisy laughed. "Well, you got it back."

"Thanks, Daisy."

Fury cleared his throat to get their attention.

"What's the mission", Clint asked.

"Two hours ago, the Los Alamos National Laboratory was raided and a very dangerous item was taken", Fury replied.

"What was taken", Daisy said.

"A 6.2 kilogram mass of plutonium", Coulson said. "Also known as..."

"The Demon Core", Clint finished.

Daisy and Yelena looked at him. "Is there anything you don't know", Daisy asked.

"My credit score."

Daisy looked at Coulson confused. He only shook his head.

"I remember reading about the Demon Core", Yelena started, "it was melted down and used for other nuclear weapons."

"Yeah, during World War II I thought", Daisy said.

"That's what the U.S government told the people. They didn't want to worry anyone. President Truman declared that it was to be melted down. To a few trusted scientists, he said to put it in the cold storage unit in the basement of the main facility", Fury said.

"Were any of these trusted scientists Howard Stark", Clint asked.

"Yep", Coulson said.

"Tony's father knew about that thing", Yelena asked.

"Apparently", Clint said. "Did SHIELD know?"

"At the time, only Margaret Carter knew", Fury said.

"How do you know", Daisy said.

"The directors of SHIELD are told about it when they become directors."

"Is that why SHIELD was called in", Yelena asked.

"The Sec Def and Secretary of Homeland Security convinced the president to let SHIELD handle it", Fury said. "That's why I am sending the four of you to New Mexico and get the damn thing back."

"Do we know who took it", Daisy asked.

"A group of mercenaries called the Watchdogs", Coulson said. He handed Clint a tablet. The two female agents were on either side of him. They watched security footage of the men entering the laboratory, and killing the scientists, and taking the Demon Core. "They have an insignia on their forearms."

"This seems like a Poseidon's Blood play", Daisy said.

"It could be", Clint said. He set the tablet down on the desk. "The Watchdogs are hired guns. Pay them the right amount and they'll do anything."

"Barton's right. Now go to the laboratory and find that nuke", Fury said.

The four agents walked out of Fury's office and went to a landing pad. The four got their gear together and entered the quinjet. Clint got in the pilot's seat and got the jet ready to take off. Daisy and Yelena, suspicious out of their minds, began doing research on the Demon Core. Coulson sat down and got comfortable.

On their way to New Mexico, Coulson had fallen asleep. Daisy and Yelena were reading articles about the Demon Core. They were discovering things they did not know before. Clint had the auto pilot on because his mind wandered to Vanessa. He was still thinking about what Tanya had said to him.

LOCATION: Los Alamos, New Mexico
TIME: 11:27

Clint landed the quinjet a short distance away from the Los Alamos National Laboratory. Coulson was the first to exit. CIA, FBI, and DHS agents already surrounded the facility. Coulson showed his badge to the agents and they let him through. The other three showed the agents their badges before entering.

"What happened to this being a secret operation? There are dozens of agents here", Clint said.

"An atomic bomb was stolen on U.S soil. Every agency is going to want a piece of it", Coulson said.

"What's the plan", Daisy asked.

"Daisy, search the computers. It could not have been easy to break through the firewall."

"Copy."

"Clint, Yelena, you two look for physical clues. These guys are good but they must have left something behind."

"Understood", Clint said.

Clint and Yelena walked around the laboratory. They looked at the dead scientists and security guards. Clint looked at the gunshot wounds while Yelena looked in the different labs.

"Coulson, I've got something", Daisy said.

Coulson walked over to her. She was working at the main computer in the security room. "What is it?"

"I found the backdoor in the system that was used to access it. What's worse, I recognize the signature used to hack the system."

"What?"

Daisy rolled her eyes. "I knew who hacked the system because I recognize the data used to find the fault in the operating system."

"Okay. Who hacked the lab?"

"The Rising Tide."

"Are you sure?"

Daisy nodded. "Does that mean Blood hired the Watchdogs?"

"I don't know", Coulson said before looking around. "Barton, are your ears on?"

"Go ahead, Coulson."

"Daisy discovered that the Rising Tide hacked the system. You think Blood has something to do with this?"

Clint sighed. "It's right up their alley. The question is why do they need the Demon Core?"

"They stole plutonium. It's probably for a bomb", Yelena said.

"Daisy, can you find out how they got in here", Clint asked.

"Yeah, give me a second." Daisy tapped a few keys. "They used security codes from people who aren't working today."

"How long would it take to get access to all of that", Yelena asked.

"Months", Daisy replied. She looked up at Coulson. "Even for me."

"You two find anything", Coulson asked.

"I have not", Yelena said.

"Not much here either", Clint said. He looked at the bodies. "These guys were in and out in minutes. They knew exactly what to do, where to go, and how long it would take to get in and out."

"This isn't an Ocean's movie, Barton. They did not practice for this, did they?"

Clint smiled. "I'm aware of that, thank you Coulson. But yes, they did practice."

"Good mercenaries always prepare", Daisy said. "How did they prepare?"

Clint looked around. Yelena watched him. She could see the wheels in his head turning. Clint looked at the cameras, the different labs around him, and the dead bodies. "They had an informant", he whispered.

"What", Coulson asked.

"They had an informant", Clint said again. "Someone on the inside."

"How do you know", Yelena asked.

"Outside information can only go so far. The areas covered by cameras can only give them so much. They needed someone on the inside to walk the mercenaries through the hall patterns and fastest way out."

"If they had a guy on the inside, why didn't they have him take the Demon Core", Daisy asked.

"Because a scientist walking out with a nuke would look to conspicuous." Clint and Yelena walked to the cold storage unit in the basement. "Hey Coulson, you know what this reminds me of?"

Coulson smiled. "Peru?"

Clint smiled. "Yep."

Coulson began laughing.

"What happened in Peru", Daisy asked.

"You don't want to know", Clint said.

"Yes, we do", Yelena said.

Clint smiled at her. "Coulson?"

Coulson sighed. "Fine. Barton and I were ordered by Secretary Pierce to find a dirty bomb that was taken from CDC headquarters."

"Wait, the CDC makes dirty bombs", Daisy asked.

"No. They made the disease that made it dirty", Clint said. "Continue, Coulson."

"We had followed the ones who stole it to Peru. We chased them into an abandoned building where they had the smart idea to set it off."

"Luckily, they were not smart enough to set the bomb right. The blast radius was only a small portion of the building."

"What happened", Yelena asked.

"Barton and I were stuck in quarantine for one month."

Yelena and Daisy began laughing.

"That's not even the worst part", Clint said.

"What is that", Yelena asked.

"Barton and I had to-"

"Don't say it", Clint almost yelled.

The four of them spent the next two hours trying to figure out how to find the Watchdogs and the purpose of the Demon Core.

Clint looked through a list of employees at the laboratory. He crossed out the ones who were killed and focused on the twelve who were not working but had accessed the main doors. He knew those were the twelve men who stole the Demon Core. He knew the informant was in the list somewhere.

Daisy tried to do what she could to find where the Watchdogs went. A camera caught part of the vehicle they used. Yelena and Coulson were busy going through the inventory on everything still in the laboratory. Fury told them to make sure nothing else was missing.

After another hour, Daisy finally found something using the camera footage and a satellite. She tracked the SUVs they used to a small, old barn house on the other side of Los Alamos. She used the satellite and saw nothing much was in that area.

Clint acquired an SUV from one of the agencies at the laboratory while Yelena, Coulson, and Daisy geared up in the quinjet. While Coulson drove, Clint called in back up from Charlie Team. They finished a mission in Denver, Colorado and could join the four agents in less than thirty minutes.

The team got to the other side of Los Alamos in fifteen minutes. Charlie Team arrived ten minutes later. They were a good mile and a half away to make sure they have the element of surprise. They all began the hike to the house. Daisy used the satellite and tablet to keep watch on the mercenaries.

After a ten minute hike, the team arrived at the house. They used the shrubbery as cover but it did not help much because they were all dressed in black.

Clint could see the twelve mercenaries. He could also see the scientist who helped the Watchdogs. It was not a minute later when five more men walked out of the house.

"What's the plan", Yelena asked.

"Charlie Four, what do you have", Clint asked.

"I see eighteen men. All armed with AR-15's and sidearms", said the agent with binoculars.

"We have to surround them. That's the plan", Clint said looking at Yelena.

"How long did it take to come up with that", she quipped back.

"Hush. Charlie Team go right. Daisy, Yelena, take the left. Barton, you and I will up the center."

"What about the Demon Core", Daisy asked.

"Four", Clint asked.

"I don't see it, Sir. Must be inside."

"Alright. Everyone check your fire. Avoid the house if we get into a fire fight."

"Yes, Sir", they said.

Charlie Team went right, using the large, old house as cover as they went around. Daisy and Yelena went left. They did not have much in the way of cover but they were both small enough to not be seen. Clint and Coulson waited where they were.

"Move on my mark", Clint said. He and Coulson moved forward a few feet before hearing a beep. Clint looked at Coulson. "What was that?"

Coulson looked down and noticed the red laser he just stepped through. "Oh, that's not good."

Clint looked at the mercenaries. They were looking in their direction. "Get cover", Clint yelled.

He and Coulson ran to where Yelena and Daisy had taken cover behind large boulders. The mercenaries began firing at them. Charlie Team returned fire causing the huddled mass of mercenaries to take cover where they could. A full on fire fight had begun.

Clint and Yelena pulled out their pistols while Coulson and Daisy grabbed their icers. They too began firing at the mercenaries.

"Clint, they have an armory", Daisy yelled.

Clint looked at the garage to the house and noticed the guns that were hung on the wall. "of course they do." He looked in that direction again and saw something else. A door. "Charlie Six, keep your focus on your four o clock. Don't let anyone go through that door."

"Copy."

Daisy and Coulson had moved to behind an old car. Yelena took advantage of the extra space and moved to hide behind a rusted oil drum. Clint was impressed she fit behind the drum. They fired back when they could. Some mercenaries fell but most had good cover.

Clint did not need to see much of the mercenary's body in order to shoot them and kill them. He killed another guy right before he heard a scream come from Yelena's direction. He turned to look at her and saw she was holding her arm. He also saw the bullet hole in the rusted oil drum. Then his mind went numb and his ears started ringing.

Daisy and Coulson, taking notice of their injured friend, ran to Yelena. They immediately began assessing her.

"It only skinned her but it left a deep groove", Coulson said. He tore his sleeve to wrap around her arm.

"Good. How are you feeling", Daisy asked.

"It hurts", she hissed.

"Yeah, it's going to hurt till there's a proper bandage on it", Coulson said. He grabbed his icer back out and fired.

"Clint, you okay", Daisy asked as she looked at a distracted Clint. He did not reply. "Clint", she yelled.

Coulson and Yelena looked at Clint. They all saw the blank stare in his eyes. Clint dropped his gun to the ground and grabbed two metal rods next to him.

"I don't like where this is going", Coulson whispered.

Clint rose from his secure position. Without hesitation, he stepped out of cover from the large boulder and charged at the mercenaries. Charlie Team stopped shooting when they saw Clint run into the line of fire. Clint hit the gun of the guy directly in front of him. The gun fell to the ground. Clint hit him in the knee with the rod and used the other to hit him across the head. The guy dropped to the ground, lifeless.

Not a second later, he ran to the next guy. Doing the same thing to that mercenary, he fell to the ground dead. Charlie Team, Daisy, Coulson, and Yelena watched in astonishment at how different Clint was acting. The remaining mercenaries fired at Clint.

Clint dodged their gunfire with such ease. He took cover behind a tree. The bullets from their guns, tearing the tree trunk apart. He threw the smaller of the two rods at a metal canister, it bounced off and hit one of the mercenaries. The rod hit him hard enough to twist his neck. Everyone heard a snap. They watched the guy fall dead.

The SHIELD agents watched Clint kill the remaining mercenaries. He made the highly skilled killers look like babies. He was ruthless with the metal rod. He even took a knife from one of the dead men and killed other men with it.

Clint grabbed a guy by his vest and jammed the knife into his neck. Blood poured onto the knife and Clint's hand. He took it out and the guy dropped down. Clint turned around when he heard grunting and the shifting of the gravel beneath him.

One of the mercenaries, the only one still alive, barely, tried to crawl to his gun. Clint watched him crawl with little avail. Inches from his gun, he felt himself being pulled up by his vest. He was on his knees facing Clint. His face staring at the angry SHIELD agent.

Clint looked down at the bloody face of the last mercenary. His face clearly beaten by the metal rod. Clint clenched his fist that was not holding up the guy. Clint brought up his fist and began punching the man.

Punch after punch. Blood covered Clint's hand and the man's face. He knew the guy had very little life left. He forgot how good it felt to kill with bare hands. Right before he could kill him, a loud bang made him freeze in place. He turned his head slightly. Then he looked back and the dying man in his fist. Clint watched blood trickle out of the man's mouth.

"Oh my god", Clint said silently. He let go of the man's vest and the man fell to the ground. He looked at his bloody fist. "What have I done?"

Three Charlie Team agents got to Clint and assessed the unconscious body at Clint's feet. Clint completely ignored them as he turned around and slowly walked toward his three friends. He looked at them for a second before diverting his attention to the ground.

Coulson immediately focused back on the mission. "Charlie Two, Three, Eight, check the other bodies for signs of life. The rest of you, look for the Demon Core. I'll join in a second."

"Yes, Sir", Charlie One said.

Coulson looked back at Daisy and Yelena. The two female agents were looking at Clint as he cleaned off the blood on his hands with a hose. "Get Yelena to the SUV", Coulson said.

Daisy looked at Coulson. "Are you not going to comment on what Clint just did?"

"Not right now", he snapped. "Get Yelena to the SUV." Coulson walked away before Daisy could protest.

She watched her boss as he went to the house. She turned around and walked with Yelena back to the SUV. Yelena held her arm that got skinned by the bullet. When they got to the SUV, Daisy went back to help the others look for the Demon Core, and maybe a computer. Yelena did not into the SUV. She instead watched Clint clean off his hands.

Thirty minutes later, Charlie Team walked out of the house carrying a large cube canister. Coulson and Daisy walked out a few minutes after. During that time, the FBI, CIA, and DHS arrived at the house. Also included were the DOJ and some of the country's leading scientists from the Pentagon.

LOCATION: Washington D.C
TIME: 18:42

Yelena carefully set her sleeping daughter in the crib. She put her hands on the railing of the crib and stared at the sleeping baby. She quietly stepped away from the crib, stepped out of the room, and closed the door. Yelena left the door open ajar. She walked to the living room and saw Natasha on the couch. Natasha saw the concern on her younger sister's face.

"What", Yelena asked as she sat next to her sister.

"I didn't say anything."

"You do not have to. I see your face instead. What is it?"

"I noticed Clint didn't come home with you."

"Yeah", she said quietly. She brought her hand up to cover the bandage around her arm.

"Did something happen between you two that ends with him avoiding you and his daughter?"

"Nothing happened between us. Something happened to him."

"What happened?"

"I don't know." She looked at Natasha. "But it was a side of him I have never seen." Natasha looked back at her. "We were shooting these mercenaries who stole a nuclear weapon. I got shot then his whole mood changed. It was like he could not hear us. He grabbed these rods and started killing the mercs. After Coulson stopped him, he walked past us and I saw it."

"Saw what?"

"I saw a darkness in his eyes, Natasha." Yelena turned her head to look down. "I have never seen that look before."

"I have", Natasha said as she turned her head to look down too.

Yelena looked at Natasha. "You have?" Natasha nodded but still avoided eye contact. "When?"

"When the Ghost tried to kill me."

Yelena's face changed from suspicion to surprise. And some fear. "You mean the Ghost is... is free", she stuttered.

Natasha put her hand over Yelena's free one. "Hey, it's going to be okay."

"How do you know that? You and Clint went into amazing detail about the Ghost when he told me about him."

"Because Clint will not let the Ghost hurt you or Natalie."

Yelena looked away from Natasha again. "That's why he was so quiet and distant on our way back."

Natasha nodded. "He knows the Ghost is free." They sat in that silence for a moment. "Where is he anyway?"

"I don't know. He didn't tell me where he was going."

 

At the Triskelion...

 

Coulson walked into Fury's office to join Fury, May, and Hill. The three of them were discussing the mission while Coulson finished his debrief.

"The Demon Core is back with the scientists at the Pentagon", Coulson said.

"How's the team doing", Hill asked.

"Charlie Team is good. They've all finished their debriefs. Johnson also finished her debrief and is now decrypting the Watchdogs' computer." Coulson put the mission report on Fury's desk.

"What about Clint and Yelena", May asked.

"Neither have been debriefed yet."

"They went home already", Hill asked.

"Yelena did. She wanted to get to the baby. I have no idea about Clint."

"You don't know where Clint is?"

Fury interrupted before Coulson could reply. "It says that Barton killed thirteen men. Was he that lucky even though there were thirteen other skilled agents on scene?"

Coulson sighed. "It wasn't luck." He looked down at Fury's desk. "It also was not Barton."

Hill and May looked at him confused. "What", May asked.

"After Yelena was shot, he made an appearance", Coulson said as he exaggerated the 'he'.

The faces of the other three agents showed signs of fear. "Are you sure", Hill asked.

"Positive. It may have been a years but I know the Ghost when I see him."

"Damn", May muttered.

"That's not good", Hill said.

"Is this his first outburst since he became the Widows", Fury asked.

"I don't know. If it's not, then he has never told me."

"Or me", May said.

Fury looked at Hill. She shook her head.

"Did Daisy have questions", May asked.

"Or Charlie Team", Hill added.

"Charlie Team didn't really have questions. They thought it normal. Daisy had questions but I told her to leave it alone."

"How long before she starts looking for answers on her own", Hill asked.

"We can't worry about this right now", Fury said. The three agents looked at their director. "If the Ghost is free, then that means Barton is a ticking time bomb on missions."

"Especially if there are other SHIELD agents with him", Hill said.

"What do we do", May asked.

"Keep an eye on Barton", Fury said.

Meanwhile, Clint sat in his SUV outside the therapists office. He was thinking about so much and could not keep a single thought straight. He got out and walked inside the building. Lucky for him, his therapist was still in the building.

Clint walked past a few people that stared at him. In his unorganized thoughts, he completely forgot to change out his uniform before leaving the Triskelion. The blood on his uniform probably did not help either. He walked to Tanya's receptionist's desk. He saw her talking to her receptionist. She was obviously ready to leave.

"Tanya", he said.

The two women looked at him. "Hi, Clint", she said as she looked at him up and down. "What are you doing here?"

"Can we talk?"

"Of course", she said without hesitation. "Follow me."

Clint walked into Tanya's office right behind her. He took a seat on the couch while Tanya set her personal items down on the floor. She took a seat in the chair.

"What can I do for you?"

"It's about the Ghost."

"What about him?"

"He's free."

Clint noticed Tanya gulp. He felt that she had every reason to be scared. He has told her everything about his past and every event leading to the Ghost. Things that nobody except Fury and Coulson know. He kept the Widows, May, and Hill is the dark on some of it to protect them.

"What do you mean he's free?"

"He came out during a mission."

"What happened?"

"SHIELD was brought in by the U.S government to help find a nuclear bomb that was taken. We got into a shootout, Yelena got hit, and he came out."

"How is Yelena?"

"She's fine. The bullet only skinned her."

"Good." She took out her notebook and wrote something down. "Did he come out right after she was hit?"

"Yes."

Tanya looked through her notes. "Based on what you've said in the past, it was only a matter of time before he would come out."

"What?"

"You said that Poseidon's Blood was slowly forcing the Ghost out. Those files and pictures slowly bringing him to the surface. Yelena getting shot must have been the final blow."

Clint took a deep breath. "I kinda put that together too."

"Then why are you here? You could have waited till Thursday for our next session. I know SHIELD has that "take a break" rule after missions."

"I'm afraid, Tanya." Her face softened. "I'm afraid to go home."

"Why?"

"Because I'm scared he's going to do something stupid", Clint said as tears welled up in his eyes. "I can still feel him in some control." He clenched his fist. "I'm scared that if I go home with his hands on the wheel than he will act out on Yelena or Natalie."

"It's clear you also have control or you never would have driven here."

Clint slowly shook his head. "I'm scared of him", he almost whispered.

"Clint, you are him."

He sighed then looked up at her. "That's why I can't go home."

Tanya nodded. "Have you given any thought to what we discussed this morning?"

"About calling Vanessa?" Tanya nodded. "Some but I'm still not sure."

"Why aren't you sure?"

"When I reunited with Sam, he said he intended to look for me when he moved to D.C. He decided not to because of all the wounds that could resurface."

"You don't want old wounds to resurface with her?"

"I don't want her old wounds to resurface. I know I'm at the center of a few of them."

"Maybe it will be good to give those wounds some open air. And you can help her face them, but first, you have to be willing to call her."

Clint nodded. "I don't know if I'm ready for that."

"Because of the Ghost?"

"Yeah."

"Clint, you need to stop letting him have control of your life."

"You said it yourself, I am him. How can I stop letting myself control my life?"

"How did you do it the first time?"

Clint began thinking. "It was the Widows."

"They were the reason you were able to lock him up?"

"Yeah, they are."

 

Somewhere in the United States...

 

Two men stood on either side of the entrance to a large factory. They opened the doors when she approached them. She walked in and went to the main factory room. When walked in, an agent approached her.

"Ma'am, we have a problem", the agent said.

"What is it", she asked.

"Our men arrived at the barn but never retrieved the item."

"Why not?"

"The Feds were there. Our men arrived in time to see a SHIELD team leave."

She spun on her heel. "A SHIELD team? They take prisoners?"

"Only one. The others are dead."

"Shot?"

"A few were shot. The others were beaten."

"Beaten how?"

"Agent 119 disguised himself and took a look. He said they looked like they died in a hand to hand fight. Some had knife wounds, broken knees, and broken necks."

"The Ghost", she whispered. "He's finally free."

"What do we do, Ma'am? Kronos is put on halt without the Demon Core."

"We have the other explosives, don't we?"

"Yes."

"And the big three are also ready?"

"Yes."

"Good. SHIELD may have taken the Demon Core, but our plans can still be put into action."

"How, Ma'am?"

"With Plan B."

"It's ready?"

"Our scientists have said that the mixture can now work on men."

"In order to activate Plan B, we have to physically inject Agent Barton."

"I'm aware, 126."

The two of them walked out of the factory room. They went down the hall to a much smaller room where scientists were working on something.

"Is there a possibility of SHIELD discovering what we use to control him?"

She smiled. "Only if they make him bleed and analyze the blood. The only real person who can identify it right away is Agent Belova."

"So the threat is still present?"

"Yes, but when we have control of the Ghost, we will have control of the most dangerous human being to ever walk the Earth. Trust me when I say that SHIELD will not be able to stop us this time. They stand no chance against the Ghost."

"Yes, Ma'am."

One of the scientists gave Valentina a thumbs up. She smiled and walked over to it. She picked up the vile of liquid and examined it closely.

"General Dreykov's formula may have been meant for the female gene but we narrowed it down to work on males."

"Perfect. Has it been tested?"

"Not yet."

Valentina turned her head to look at the agent standing next to her. "We have a subject right here."

The agent's eyes widened. "Ma'am?"

"You'll be our test subject."

Two agents standing by the door walked forward and grabbed either arm. "Wait, no", he yelled. A scientist filled a syringe and walked to the agent. "No. Please. No!"

One of the agents moved the restrained agent's head to the side to get access to the neck. The scientist injected the syringe into the man's neck. He quickly stopped struggling and fell to his knees. Valentina walked forward and stood directly in front of him.

"Get up", she said. She waved off the two agents holding him. They took a few steps back.

The agents slowly stood and stared her right in the eye. "Yes, Ma'am."

Valentina stepped forward and whispered something in his ear. She took some steps back. The agent quickly grabbed his gun from his holster, spun around, and shot the two agents in the head. The scientists stood in shock.

"Perfect", Valentina said with a smile. "Echo Foxtrot Alpha Foxtrot Zulu", she said as she walked to the door.

The agent moved the gun to under his chin then pulled the trigger. The scientist who injected him flinched away when the agent fell to the ground after shooting himself.

"Get someone to clean this mess up", Valentina said as she walked out.

"Yes, Ma'am", the leading scientist stuttered.

Chapter 23: Return of the Ghost

After his talk with Tanya, he took a long drive around the city. The chaos of the busy city somehow calming to him. Clint chose the drive over going straight home because he could feel the Ghost still at the surface of his body. That meant he still has a lot of control.

Clint quietly opened the door to the apartment. Silence and darkness being the only presence in the apartment. He savored the feeling of quiet for a moment. It seemed to calm him but not long.

He walked to the hallway and stopped at Natalie's door. Clint pushed open the already open door a little more. He softly walked to the crib and looked at his sleeping daughter. He smiled at how peaceful she looked; not yet affected by the brutality of the world.

Walking out of the room, Clint closed the door. He continued to the bedroom. Yelena was asleep on the bed. He quietly changed into more comfortable clothes. Clint was about to crawl into bed with Yelena but stopped when his hand touched the sheets.

Thoughts began rushing into his head. The Ghost rearing his head into Clint's actions again. He closed his eyes and sighed because he knew there was nothing he could do about it. Clint grabbed a pillow and walked to the living room. He set the pillow on one end of the couch and settled down on it. Clint looked up at the ceiling, thoughts and memories flooding into his head. The quiet no longer a comfort to him.

"Looks like I finally won. The sun felt great", the dark and familiar voice said. "I warned you."

"Don't become arrogant. I can still stop you."

"Stop me?" The Ghost started laughing. "You cannot stop me, Clint. I've grown stronger. Far beyond your own capabilities. There is nothing anyone can do to stop me from taking complete control. Like I said before, enjoy this time with them while you can."

Then the voice stopped. Clint's eyes slowly closing but his mind not letting sleep actually take over.

 

One Week Later...

 

Clint grabbed a coffee mug down from the shelf. He filled it with the freshly brewed pot of coffee and brought the mug to his lips. When he brought the mug back down, he felt his hand start to spasm again. The eleventh time this week. He quickly slammed his other hand down on the shaking one.

Yelena had walked in right after that happened, baby Natalie in her arms. She could see the odd way Clint was acting. A part of her wanted to talk to him but the morning she found him sleeping on the couch, everything changed. She did not know if it was good or bad. Since that morning a week ago, their whole routine was different.

Natalie reached her little hands out to her father. Yelena handed Clint their daughter and he smiled at her. The seven month old child smiled back and reached for the necklace chain around Clint's neck. Natalie started playing with his dog tags.

Clint kissed Natalie's head. He turned his head to see Yelena making herself a cup of coffee. He felt like she was avoiding eye contact with him. Clint looked at Natalie again. She looked at him while she toyed with the dog tags.

"I'm sorry", he finally said after watching Natalie play for a minute.

"For what?" She turned her head to look at him.

"Being distant the last week." Clint looked at Yelena. "I didn't know how to handle the Ghost seeing the light of day."

"You do not need to apologize for that, Clint."

Clint took a deep breath when he realized what she was doing. He thought they moved past that but apparently not. "Lena, please don't do that."

"Do what?"

"Act like everything is okay. I know that this whole thing is effecting you."

"That is not true", she said as she walked to the couch."

Clint followed her. "Really? So, us barely saying five words to each other, unless it concerns our daughter, has not done anything to you?"

Yelena shook her head. "No."

Clint rolled his eyes. He knows that Yelena is going back to her old ways of putting up shields around her heart. He sat on the floor and put Natalie down. "Yelena, if you are angry, upset, or just plain sad, you have to tell me."

"What good will that do?"

"It will tell me how you're feeling."

"Why do you want to know that", she asked. Her voice rising.

"So you put some of your stress on me", he replied. His voice matching her own.

"That is why I do not want to say anything to you", she yelled.

Natalie began crying. Clint lifted her and placed her in his lap. Yelena sighed. She rose from the couch and walked over to the two. She sat down on the floor next to Clint and helped him comfort their daughter. Natalie's crying started to cease.

Clint looked at Yelena. "What did you mean", he asked.

Yelena kept her gaze on Natalie. "I did not want to dump any of my emotions on you."

"Why not?"

She looked at him. "You are going through so much right now. I did not want to be more of a burden on you."

Clint felt his heart brake. He reached his hand over to grab her free hand. "I am so sorry I made you feel that way, Lena. That was not my intention." His hand tightened. "I know I've spent a lot of time focusing on the Ghost. I'm sorry I haven't spent more time with you and Natalie." She smiled and tightened her grip. "And if I know one thing, it's that you are never going to be a burden on me."

Yelena kissed him before lying her head on his shoulder.

The two spent the next hour playing with their daughter. Yelena laughed while she watched Clint try to feed the baby. He is not as well traversed at it like Yelena is. The food goes in her mouth and would come out in less than two seconds.

Yelena recorded the whole thing. Clint glared at her a few times knowing that Natasha would be seeing this the instant it was over. Yelena burst out laughing when some of the food landed on Clint's shirt.

Clint's phone started buzzing on the kitchen counter. Yelena grabbed it while Clint cleaned up the mess Natalie had made. Yelena handed him the phone after he wiped off his hands. Clint opened the message and his eyes widened.

"What is it", Yelena asked.

"Daisy finished decrypting the computer she found in the Watchdogs' barn."

"Did she find something good?"

"Better than good. The email used to hire the Watchdogs to steal the Demon Core came from Iowa."

"Why is that better than good?"

"According to what she told me, the email was sent from a Blood computer by one of their Rising Tide operatives. She tracked the computer to Iowa."

"Does that mean you are leaving?"

Clint was about to say yes until he saw the sadness on her face. "No", he said shaking his head. "I can send another team to handle it."

Yelena chuckled. "Bullshit."

Clint smirked. "What are you talking about?"

"You want to go on the mission, Clint. I can see it in your eyes." Clint was about to protest but Yelena continued. "You are good at reading me but I can read you too."

Clint sighed and smiled. "Fine, I want to go on the mission. Ever since Echo Team was killed I don't want a team to go anywhere without me."

"Then you have to go."

"I don't have to go", he said shaking his head.

Yelena walked forward and cupped Clint's face with both hands. "Clint, you have to go."

Clint gave her a small smile. "Thank you." He kissed her before going to the bedroom to change. He kissed her again and kissed Natalie's cheek before leaving.

On his way to the Triskelion, Clint called Fury. The director, somewhere in Asia, allowed Clint to go mission. Under the condition that he go alone. When he arrived, he got the information from Daisy. After that, Clint went to a landing pad and took off in the quinjet.

LOCATION: Knoxville, Iowa
TIME: 10:45

Clint landed the quinjet on the outskirts of the city of Knoxville. The location Daisy had given him showed the base to be along a river fed by Lake Red Rock. Daisy gave him the coordinates to the base so he followed the river to the base. According to what he knew, and suspected, the river must power their base.

He was about a quarter of a mile away from the signal on his phone when he saw the perimeter of the base. Clint got closer to it to get a better look. Based on what he could see, the base Poseidon's Blood is using was an old water distribution facility.

Clint saw three agents walking the perimeter fence. He also saw a few agents walk into the base. Looking at the facility, Clint noticed the technological advancements all around it. His brain began coming up with reasons for the upgrades to the facility. He knew it was not an ordinary base.

A white van pulled up to the fence gate. Clint stayed low but ran to the van. He pulled out his knife while staying on the back of it and to the left. The camera on the fence post only covered the right side of the van.

As the van drove through the gate, Clint moved to the left side to avoid being seen by the camera. He hid behind the van again when it was completely through the gate. Clint put his eyes on the guard by the gate. With the element of surprise, Clint ran at the guy, jammed the knife into his neck, and tackled him to the ground.

Clint got up and ran to where other vans were parked. He hid in between two vans. There were two agents standing by the doors. Clint saw one of the two agents by the door type in a code on the keypad and walk into the facility.

"That's a problem", Clint mumbled.

 

Meanwhile...

 

Yelena smiled as she handed the small ball to Natalie. The baby threw the ball as soon as she was given the ball. Yelena only rolled her eyes and laughed. She knew her daughter would only throw the toys put in her hand.

A knock on the door made Yelena look up. She grabbed Natalie and walked to the door. Natalie cooing when she was lifted. Yelena walked to the door, opened it, and was surprised to see Daisy on the other side.

"Hey, Daisy. What are you doing here?" She moved to the side to let Daisy walk into the apartment.

Daisy smiled. "Hey. Since Clint didn't need my help on the mission, I decided to come visit two of my favorite people."

Ever since Clint and Daisy began doing the Poseidon's Blood raids and investigations, Daisy has been spending more time with Yelena and Natalie. When the baby was born, she was there just in case they needed anything. Yelena was very grateful to have both Natasha and Daisy with her when Clint could not be there.

"Clint did not give me much information about the mission. Can you tell me?"

"Yeah."

While they walked the very short distance, Yelena handed Natalie over to Daisy because she wanted more attention. She smiled at her aunt and began reaching for her hair. Daisy began talking to her and laughing at her for grabbing at her hair. Yelena could only smile at them.

Daisy sat down on the floor with Yelena and put Natalie down. "I tracked the email Blood used to hire the Watchdogs to facility in Knoxville, Iowa. For some reason, I couldn't get satellite surveillance over the area."

"Do you think they are the reason you could not use a satellite? Maybe some electrical pulse coming from their facility?"

"I thought about that but I have no idea. I didn't like sending him in blind."

"It's not the first time he has had to do something like that without information."

Daisy smirked and nodded. She remembered some of the stories that Coulson and May have told her. She looked down. "How has he been by the way? The Demon Core mission shook him up. I was not expecting him to do what he did."

Yelena frowned. Clint warned her that Daisy might do this. "He has been okay. He said that it was just blind rage because I got hit."

Daisy nodded without saying anything.

Yelena had no idea if Daisy actually believed that lie. It was not a total lie; just a big lie with some truth behind it. She hated lying to her friend but she understood why Fury forbade her from saying anything. Natasha said he forbade anyone from saying anything because it was Clint's secret alone to tell.

"I have a question I have been dying to ask you", Daisy said. "Bobbi and Hunter don't know and I have not gotten the chance to ask Clint."

"What is it?"

"Why aren't you and Clint married? I mean, you and Clint are in a relationship, live in the same apartment, and have a daughter. Why not just check off the last box?"

Yelena smirked. "You are not the first person to ask such a question." She looked down at Natalie. "We had a minor discussion about marriage but we both decided it was not for us."

"Why is it not? You already act like a married couple. The only difference will be that you both will wear rings. And you'll have a piece of paper that says you're married."

Yelena huffed out a laugh. "I don't know, Daisy."

Daisy smiled. "I'm not trying to convince you to get married, I just wanted to know why you weren't married."

Yelena turned her head to look at a picture of her and Clint before she found out she was pregnant. She smiled. "Maybe it is not such a bad idea", she said quietly.

 

At the Old Water Facility in Iowa...

 

Clint was contemplating what to do about the code to enter. The rational side of himself said to threaten the agent for the code. The irrational side, the Ghost side, told him to kill the agent and find another way into the building.

The rational side of him winning, Clint threw a rock to get the guard to turn around. Clint snuck behind the guard and brought the knife to his jugular.

"Put in the code for the door and I won't kill you", he whispered. "Understand?"

"Yes", the guard said also in a whisper.

"Good." Clint shoved him toward the keypad. "Put it in."

The guard put in the 5 digit code. Clint heard the door unlock. "There."

Clint narrowed his eyes. "Thank you", he said before forcing the knife into the guard's throat. The guard hit the wall and slid down it. "Sorry for lying."

Clint removed the knife and entered the building. As he snuck through the building, Clint was careful of the security cameras at certain corners. He also noticed the serious lack of agents walking around. Much less than he suspected, even for a regular base.

The facility was mostly uninteresting until he got to the large factory room. Clint was in a state of awe at what he was looking at. Large missiles, 13 to 15 feet in length, each shaped different than the others. He was amazed at the four missiles in front of him. Like the rest of the facility that he already checked, there was no one in the factory.

He took out his phone and took pictures of the four missiles. Clint tried to take photos from as many angles as he could. He also took photos of the names on the sides of the missiles. He read 'Kronos', 'Zeus', 'Poseidon', and 'Hades'.

Clint walked out of the room and continued through the rest of the facility. He walked into the lab. Nothing seemed out of place, as if the lab was cleaned right before he arrived. Clint took pictures of the lab too. Not that there was much to take pictures of.

He proceeded out of that room to the next. The room next to the lab was bigger than the lab but smaller than the factory. There was not much inside the room. If Clint had to guess, he would say it was an office. Based on the content, it was Valentina's office.

There were newspaper articles pinned up on the wall. Some articles talked about SHIELD; others talked about the Senator who proposed the Sword and Shield Defense Bill. Some articles also talked about the Avengers and the Sokovia Accords.

When Clint got to the last few articles, his heart started beating faster. The title of the articles read either 'Devil of Hell's Kitchen' or 'Who Is The Daredevil?' He sighed when he saw the circle around Daredevil. Now he knows that Valentina and Poseidon's Blood are going after the Devil.

Clint turned away from that wall and walked to the map of the opposite wall. Maps might be more appropriate because there were multiple maps on the wall. Three to be exact. One map of Washington D.C, another of the United States, and the last is a map of the world.

There were multiple pins in each map. Looking at the map of D.C, Clint recognized some of the places that were pinned. They were the locations of some Poseidon's Blood attacks. Also on the map was a different colored pin that was placed exactly where the Triskelion is located.

Clint took a few steps back and took pictures of the maps and newspaper articles. "This is unbelievable", he said to himself.

He looked at the desk. Walking over to it, he noticed the small pile of files. Clint walked behind the desk and looked at them. Each file contained something different. The first few were personnel files on him, Yelena, Daisy, Coulson, and other SHIELD agents. Under those were folders with photos inside.

His heart sank and his blood boiled when he opened the first folder with photos. They were of him, Yelena, Natalie, and Natasha. Some would be just him or just Yelena. Most were of them together, them with Natalie, one of them with Natalie, or them with Natasha.

Clint started reading the dates on the back of the photos. "Some of these date back years", he said as he looked at the photo of Yelena and Natasha. The photo was taken a month or two after Yelena graduated from the Academy.

Not wanting to see the photos in the other folders, he closed the one he was looking at and set it down. He took pictures of the files and looked down. That is when he saw the box on the left side of the desk.

Clint lifted the box and put it on the desk. He took off the lid. Inside were nine folders and a post it note on the top file. The post it note read 'Titanomachy'. He quirked his brow. Opening the top file, Clint started reading information about TATP.

Logic and reason instantly taking over, he did not have to open the rest to know what they say. In order to confirm his theory, he opened the other top four files. The four were about TNT, RDX, PETN, and Aziroazide Azide. After taking pictures of each, he set them aside.

Clint then opened the last four files in the box. They were about the missiles. Each one had schematics on the individual missiles and descriptions of the explosives inside them. The aforementioned five explosives seemed to be what the missile would carry.

His eyes got to the file labeled 'Kronos'. He was expecting to see the same as the others but was shocked to see what Kronos would carry. While the four missiles were built different from one another, Kronos was especially different.

Kronos was built with a compartment made for a sphere. Clint read more in the Kronos file and examined the schematics and it dawned on him. The explosive that Kronos was going to carry was the Demon Core. He knew Poseidon's Blood wanted the Demon Core for a type of bomb but this is not what he was expecting.

Clint's head shot up when he heard a noise a few yards away from the office door. He took pictures of the missile files and quickly put them back in the box. He put the lid back on and set the box back down next to the desk.

Suddenly, everything became dark. He felt his mind go numb.

"Rise, Agent Barton", a female voice said.

Clint stood up and locked eyes with the older woman. "Orders, Ma'am?"

Valentina smiled. "Perfect." She began walking. The agents around her moved. "Walk with me." Clint started walking with her. "It's time for SHIELD to fall."

 

Two Hours Later...

 

Clint landed the quinjet on the same landing pad as the one he left. He walked down the ramp of the jet and went inside the Triskelion. He ignored every agent he walked past until he got to the elevator. One agent talking nonstop in the elevator while Clint's anger grew.

The elevator stopped and the agent walked off. The elevator proceeded to the lower levels of the Triskelion. It stopped on the floor just above the gun range. Clint walked out and started walking to one of the many storage rooms. He saw an agent standing by the door he needed access to.

"I'm sorry, Agent Barton. You cannot access the room", the agent said.

"I just have to grab something real quick."

"I'm sorry, Sir. Fury has ordered no entry for anyone until further notice."

Clint did not reply. He instead grabbed the agent by an arm and forced him against the wall. The agent tried to fight but to no avail. Clint kicked him in the leg and threw his head against the wall. The force of contact strong enough to leave a dent in the wall. The agent dropped to the ground.

Clint input the seven digit code and the door unlocked. He dragged the dead body into the room. He walked around the storage room filled with containers. In the back of the room, Clint found the container he was looking for.

He took off the lid to reveal the suit inside. Clint reached in and started pulling out the different pieces of the suit. He put on all the pieces. When the suit was on, he put on the mask then grabbed the sword from the container. The blade extended and he put it in the sheath.

Clint put the hood over the mask and walked back to the elevator. In the elevator, he checked the individual weapons he carried. The sword, a few knives, and throwing stars was all he carried. When the doors opened, he came face to face with two agents. Events could not have happened faster.

He rushed the two agents standing there. Neither of them had time to react before Clint killed them both. He looked up and there were three more agents standing there. Two of them ran at him while the third grabbed her radio.

He took down the two agents with ease. He grabbed a gun from one of the dead agents and shot the agent who grabbed her radio. Unfortunately, she radioed for back up just in time. Agents were running at him from both sides of the large hallway.

Some agents had their sidearms drawn, others had their batons out, and the rest had no weapons. Clenching his fists, he relaxed the rest of his body. When the agents got close enough, he started to take them down left and right. Each agent taking four to five seconds for him to kill.

The agents throwing fists were no challenge. He blocked the attacks of the batons, disarmed them, then killed them. He also used the bodies of a few agents as a shield against the bullets flying at him. When close enough, he focused on the agents with guns. He tore through those agents like nothing.

The last agent still standing was shaking in fear. He was stepping back to keep distance between him and Clint who was stepping toward him. The agent quickly reached for his gun but the man in the black and gold suit was much faster. He quickly disarmed the agent of the gun, twisted his arm, bent him over, and punched the agent on the back of the neck.

He stepped over the now dead body of the agent and walked to the door to the landing pad. When he got a few yards away from the jet, he saw a female standing on the ramp to the quinjet he used. She clenched her fists and walked down the ramp.

"Don't make me do this, Clint", she said.

He turned his head to the side; as if trying to figure her out. She ran at him. He quickly reacted by dodging the first hit. She continued to throw punches and kicks. He blocked them all. He finally kicked her in the chest.

She stumbled back. "I taught you to well", she muttered.

He ran at her but she quickly recovered. They got into a full fighting match. They were both blocking and dodging each other's attacks. That was until he kicked her leg out from under her. She hit the ground with a loud grunt. Before she could get back up, he kicked her in the face, knocking her out.

Without looking back, he walked to the quinjet. He walked up the ramp and sat in the pilot's seat. Starting the thrusters, the ramp rose. He turned his head when he heard gunshots hit the jet. The bullets were useless because the jet hovered over the landing pad and took off. The thrust knocking those agents off their feet and sending a few over the side of the landing pad.

"Mission successful, Ma'am", Clint said into his comm.

"Good work, Ghost. Now on to the next part of our plan."

Chapter 24: Haunting of the Ghost

Notes:

This chapter did not get away from me. It was all planned from the beginning. Also, I think there will be mixed reactions on this chapter.

Coulson ran through the doors to the landing pad. He saw the medics servicing the injured agents. Looking at each agent, he saw two medics speaking over a body. His eyes widened when he realized who it was.

"May", he yelled. Coulson ran to them. "How is she", he asked the medics.

"She's unconscious, Sir", one of them said.

"How come she's not waking up like the others?"

"The bruises on her face and chest indicate that she fought the person who killed the agents inside. The agents out here are saying that the quinjet thrusters blew them back."

Coulson turned his head to look at one of the agents. He walked over to where two agents were sitting. "Did you see who did this?"

"No, Sir", one agent said.

"Whoever did this was in the quinjet with the ramp up when we got here. We could not see him", the other said.

Coulson turned around to survey the scene, but he did not walk away. The two agents behind him started talking.

"Who the hell could have done this?"

"I don't know but whoever did this must have been fast."

"Yeah. Went through those guys like a ghost."

That sent a shiver down Coulson's spine. He walked away from them. Medic's ran past him with a stretcher. He watched them put May on it and wheel her away.

"Where are you taking her", he asked.

"Fury ordered us to get her to a hospital under an assumed name. He has questions for when she wakes up and does not want anyone to know she's alive." They continued wheeling her away.

Coulson watched the stretcher for as long as it was in his view. When it disappeared, he grabbed out his phone. Going through his contacts, he found Clint's name. "Pick up, Barton. Come on, pick up." His whole body filled with dread when there was no answer.

 

Later That Night...

 

Secretary Ross opened the door to his office and closed it. The lamp next to the window being the only light to illuminate the office; so it was dim. He sat down in his chair and began reading through the documents on his desk.

"Very lovely office you have here, Mr. Secretary", a female voice said.

His head shot up. Sitting in the chair on the other side of the desk was a woman staring right at him. She had a smile on her face.

"Who are you", he asked. His hand hovering over a button on the underside of his desk.

"I would not press that button if I were you. My associate over there has quite the act for killing unsuspecting people."

Secretary Ross turned his head to look at the dark corner of the office. A figure walked into the light. Mask and hood covering his face. The lamp illuminated the gold lining of the black suit.

"What is this", Ross asked.

"Put both hands on the desk." Ross did as she said. "Good. I'm here for the location of the lab in New York that develops special weaponry."

"I don't know what you are talking about."

She laughed. "Don't do that, Thaddeus. You know exactly what I am talking about."

His eyes widened. "Agent Fontaine?"

She chuckled. "I don't go by that title anymore. Now answer the question."

Ross scowled. "What makes you think I will tell you where the lab is?"

Valentina turned her head. "Him." The Ghost stepped closer to Ross. "He has a way of persuading people to do things they really don't want to do." He got closer to Ross. "He's broken even the most well trained of interrogators."

Ross looked at Valentina, then the Ghost, then back at Valentina. "You think your threats are the first I've heard?"

Suddenly, a hand was on the back of his neck and a sword was millimeters from his neck. The Ghost leaned down to Ross's ear. "Answer the question", he growled. "Or I do this." He brought the blade from Ross's neck to his wrist. He pushed the blade in slightly. Blood began coming out. Ross was about to scream from the pain but the Ghost put his hand over Ross's mouth.

"Give us the lab location or he takes off your hand."

Ross shook his head.

"Tell us or your whole staff dies", the Ghost growled again.

Ross closed his eyes and nodded. The Ghost slowly removed his hand. "It's in Hell's Kitchen. A warehouse on the intersection of 100th Avenue and West 36th. It will be the one with the black trucks."

"Thank you for your cooperation", the Ghost said. He grabbed the collar of Ross's shirt and hit the back of his head with the hilt of the sword. The Ghost slowly put Ross's head on the desk.

 

Hell's Kitchen...

 

The Ghost was on the rooftop across the street from the warehouse. The rain was pouring like a brake in a dam. The Ghost was watching trucks enter and exit the lab.

After watching for ten minutes, the rain dripping down his suit, the Ghost sprung into action. He scaled down the fire escape railing. Stairs would have taken too long. He jumped from the second floor balcony and landed on the ground with a splash.

Once the last truck left, the Ghost ran towards the warehouse. He entered the building through one of the loading docks. He snuck into the building and hid behind a large crate. He watched men unload the contents of different crates. He also saw some security guards walking around.

He moved forward, hiding behind crates. When a guard or worker would walk by, he would sneakily take them down by cracking their necks. The Ghost got to the other side of the large room and snuck through the door.

The Ghost walked into a hallway. He looked around. "I'm in", he said.

"Was our information correct", Valentina asked.

"Yes. The lab is working off a government contract. The crates came from the Department of Damage Control and they were marked from Sokovia."

"Good. Confirm the object and take out the subjects."

"Yes, Ma'am."

The Ghost walked down the hallway. The ceiling lights were off but there was a light at the end of the hall. From what he could see, the light was shining through a door window. He walked toward it and looked inside it.

He saw scientists working. Some scientists were working on computers, some were looking through microscopes, and others were analyzing the metal from the crates. He watched a scientist pull a robot head out of one of the crates in the lab.

Turning the handle of the door, he walked in and stabbed the first scientist closest to him. The scientist fell to the ground. The other scientists looked at him. The Ghost reacted quickly. He stabbed, cut, and sliced the scientists. Three minutes passed and no scientist was alive.

The Ghost used one of the scientist's lab coats to clean off the blade. He did the same to his knife. He ignored the blood on his suit. The Ghost walked over to one of the computers and began typing.

He accessed the lab's secure files and read through the different projects being developed. It took him seconds to find the project he needed. Taking out a jump drive, he plugged it in and downloaded the information.

"Information acquired", the Ghost said.

"Good. Now, take care of the subjects. I'll make sure no one gets passed the loading deck."

"Yes, Ma'am."

The Ghost walked out of the lab and went back to the loading area. He gripped the sword hilt tightly and kicked the door open. The guard next to the door was not fast enough because the sword went right through his chest.

The workers and guards looked at him. Before they could comprehend what happened, an explosion rocked the loading dock. They looked in that direction.

The Ghost used the distraction to start killing the workers and guards nearest to him. On the other side, the Poseidon's Blood agents started shooting the workers and guards. The loading dock became nothing but a blood bath in minutes.

"Start loading the crates", the Ghost yelled. "We don't have much time before the next delivery."

"Yes, Ghost", an agent said. Two white trucks pulled up to the loading dock. "Start loading the trucks."

Eighteen minutes passed and most of the crates Valentina wanted were loaded onto the trucks. The Ghost was supervising the loading until he heard a grunt followed by a loud thump. He turned around while the agents lifted their guns.

They were all looking at a man in a red and black suit holding two billy clubs. The Ghost held up his fist to halt the agents. They lowered their guns.

"I'll handle this. Finish loading the supplies", the Ghost said. The agents got to work. "The Devil", the Ghost said.

"What's going on with you, Clint", he asked.

The Ghost twisted his head slightly.

"Not again", the Devil muttered.

The Ghost ran at him. He threw a billy club. The Ghost caught the billy club and threw it to the side before grabbing his sword. The two engaged in a fight.

The two of them fought with great speed. Both being able to dodge the others attacks. The sword and billy club impact sounding like metal hitting the floor. The Poseidon's Blood agents trying to maneuver around them.

The Devil caught the arm holding the sword. The Ghost quickly reacted by grabbing the back of the Devil's neck and throwing him, head first, into a crate. That disorientated him. The Ghost proceeded to punch him in the head.

Blow after blow, the Devil could feel each one. It was like small boulders that were being thrown at his head. His cowl being the only protection he has. The Ghost kicked him in the chest and he fell back. His head hit the ground hard.

The Ghost grabbed the billy club that the Devil threw at him. The Devil sat up, his ears ringing, and was about to stand but the Ghost hit him across the head with the billy club. This time he fell back unconscious. Blood began trickling out of his mouth.

The Ghost grabbed his sword and walked toward the unconscious vigilante. He was about one foot away when he heard the faint sound of sirens.

"Ghost, we're done", an agent said.

"Good. Let's go."

The Poseidon's Blood agents ran into the trucks. The Ghost watched them drive off before he ran to the alley next to the building where he was previously standing. He watched law enforcement appear at the building before disappearing into the darkness.

 

Unknown Location...

 

The Ghost watched the Poseidon's Blood agents unload the trucks.

"Was it successful", Valentina asked as she walked up to stand next to him.

"Yes, Ma'am. Everything was there just like you predicted."

"Good. With this metal, our scientists should be able to develop Phase Two."

"How long will that take?"

"I don't know. Phase Two has been in the development stage for years." Valentina and the Ghost walked to one of the open crates. Valentina took something out. "Because of Ultron, we should now be able to complete it."

"Why now? Sokovia happened 15 months ago."

"We had to wait for Damage Control to finish the clean up. Then SHIELD got in the way." The Ghost growled. "Tomorrow, SHIELD will pay for what they did."

"You still haven't filled me in on the plan."

Valentina smiled. "I won't say much till tomorrow, but what I will say is that while the Avengers and SHIELD teams are busy with our agents, you will destroy their leadership."

 

The Next Day... On the Helicarrier...

 

A quinjet de-cloaked and landed on the helicarrier. Steve, Tony, Sam, Rhodey, and Natasha walked out. They were met by Daisy. The Avengers followed her to the bridge. When they entered, they saw Coulson, Fury, Hill, and Yelena talking. Mack was sitting at the table.

Yelena walked away from her superiors and wrapped her arms around her sister.

"How's May", Natasha asked when they released.

"Still unconscious. She is the only person who saw the person who attacked the Triskelion."

"Did what", Steve asked.

"Someone attacked the Triskelion", Fury said.

"Who the hell would be stupid enough to do that", Sam asked.

"That's what we are trying to figure out", Hill replied. "We don't have many leads."

"Could it be Hydra", Steve asked.

"We have no idea", Yelena said.

"Security cameras were disabled somehow during the attack. Whoever confronted the intruder was killed", Coulson said.

"Everyone except May", Daisy said.

"Anything taken", Rhodey asked.

"Not that we know of", Hill said. "Agents are still going through the building."

"Why did you call us", Tony asked.

"We need your help", Fury said.

"Whoever did this is dangerous. And good at what they do. SHIELD alone may not be able to handle this threat", Coulson said.

"Okay", Steve said as he nodded. "We're willing to help."

"I have a question", Rhodey said. Everyone looked at him. "Where's Clint? I thought he would be here too."

Coulson was about to answer but Fury spoke first. "Barton was sent on another assignment yesterday. The location keeps him from being able to contact us and us, him."

Rhodey nodded in understanding. Natasha noticed the slight shuffle in Yelena's stance when Rhodey asked the question. They made eye contact but Yelena looked away. Natasha knew then that something is wrong.

The Avengers sat around the table and started talking. There was not much for them to do because SHIELD did not have much for them to do right now.

Fury, Coulson, and Hill were talking privately. Daisy and Mack began talking with the Avengers. Natasha pulled Yelena away from the group and they went to a corner of the bridge where they could talk privately.

"What is going on", Natasha asked.

"What do you mean?"

"When Rhodey asked about Clint, you seemed to get uncomfortable."

"I got uncomfortable?"

"Yes, as in you know something about Clint and Fury doesn't want the others to know."

Yelena sighed. She knew better than to play dumb with her sister. "Clint is on a mission. After the attack yesterday, Coulson tried calling him but he did not answer."

"What was the mission?"

"Infiltrating a Blood base in Iowa."

"So, he goes to a Blood base, doesn't answer phone calls, and then the Triskelion gets attacked. That does not sound like a coincidence."

"I know", Yelena said looking down.

"Hey", Natasha said as she put her hand on Yelena's shoulder. The younger woman looked up. "You know there could be a few reasons why Clint didn't answer his phone."

"Then why did you say it was not a coincidence", Yelena almost yelled.

"I don't know. Maybe because when Clint is involved, its almost never a coincidence." Yelena did not look better. "Look, do not jump to conclusions. I know you like to do that." Yelena gave her a weak smile. "Just be patient and wait for more details, okay?"

Yelena nodded slowly.

Natasha smiled. She cupped Yelena's cheek with her other hand. "How's my niece?"

Yelena's smile grew. "She's good. I hated leaving her this morning."

"Yeah?"

Yelena nodded. "I guess without an update on Clint, I did not want to leave her."

 

Ten Minutes Later...

 

"What is your haul, over", the analyst asked.

"Arms and ammunition", the pilot said.

"You are clear to land."

The pilot turned off the radio. "Ghost, we are about to land."

"Good. Remember, attack plan Delta."

"Yes, Ghost", all the agents in the jet said.

"What's my part", the Taskmaster asked.

The Ghost walked over to one of the agents and took his tablet. "You will exit after us and go after this." He handed the tablet to the Taskmaster. "It will be in the lab on the lower level of the carrier."

The Taskmaster nodded. "Yes, Ghost."

The quinjet landed on the runway. A tactical team, with their guns raised, walked slowly toward the jet. The ramp slowly lowered.

"Director, we have action on the runway", the analyst said.

"What is it", Fury asked. The others looked in Fury's direction.

"Don't know. A quinjet landed saying it was carrying arms and ammunition. The problem is, the serial number matches the one that was taken by Agent Barton."

Natasha put a hand on Yelena's shoulder.

"Send a tac team."

"Already done, Sir. Accessing their cameras now."

The screens that Fury uses in the bridge and the screens on the table showed the live footage from the cameras on the tactical team's helmets. The Avengers, Fury, Hill, Coulson, Daisy, Mack, and Yelena watched the ramp lower.

Suddenly, the tactical team started firing. The Poseidon's Blood agents fired back with their laser guns. The SHIELD agents falling quickly. The agents walked out of the jet. Then the camera footage went black.

"What happened", Coulson asked.

"I don't know", the analyst responded. "Something is interfering with the signal."

"Can you pinpoint the problem", Hill asked.

"Yes, Ma'am." The analyst hit a few buttons. "It's coming from the jet."

"Their jet", Fury asked.

"Yes, Sir. Their jet."

"That's right, Nicholas", a female voice said suddenly over the radio. The whole bridge went dead quiet. "Daisy Johnson is good but I have a team of hackers that are better. We control your cameras and radios."

"Valentina", Fury said with a slight growl. "I take it you're responsible for the attack on the Triskelion?"

"Of course I am."

"It takes a lot of nerve, even from you, to attack us. SHIELD has been wiping you off the map."

"No, Nicholas. Barton has been wiping Poseidon's Blood off the map, not SHIELD."

"Where is Barton", Coulson blurted. "You have his jet. What did you do to him?"

Valentina laughed. "Hello, Phil. It's been a while."

"Not long enough. Now, where is Clint?"

"Don't worry. You will see him sooner than you think." The camera footage turned on again. Everyone looked at the screens. "By the way, Nicholas, I have a message for you."

"What", Fury gritted through his teeth.

"A warning is more like it." She laughed. "GHOST Protocol has been activated." With that, the line went dead.

Fear filled the director when she said those words. Hill and Coulson looked at one another. Fear also filling them. Yelena and Natasha also looked at each other. Fear did not fill them though but rather worry. Some fear filled Natasha because she has seen what the Ghost can do.

Steve, noticing the quiet, was about to speak an analyst spoke first. "Sir, there is movement on the jet."

Fury looked at the screen. The others did the same thing. They watched nine Poseidon's Blood agents exit the jet in a military formation. Right behind them, the Ghost walked out. The sun reflecting off the gold lining. The sun also illuminated the blood on his suit.

"Oh my god", Natasha said under her breath.

"It's true", Coulson said under his breath.

"Who is that", Steve asked outloud.

"It doesn't matter", Tony said. "Let's stop these bastards before we have a repeat of 2012."

The Avengers except Natasha left the room to get their gear. Daisy and Mack also left the room to help the Avengers.

Fury continued to stare at the screen. Analysts were trying to get his attention but he would not acknowledge them. Either Coulson or Hill would answer for him. Natasha held Yelena's hand in hers and held it with a tight grip.

"We have to stop him", Fury said quietly. He turned around and walked to the table where Yelena and Natasha were. Coulson and Hill joined them. "We need to stop him."

"How do you propose we do that", Natasha asked. "Anyone who goes near him gets killed."

"We're missing one important detail", Yelena said, "What are his orders?"

The five of them looked at each other and pondered the question.

"Director, there is more movement", an analyst said.

The five of them looked at the camera footage. Someone else walked down the ramp of the jet.

"Great. Like this wasn't already hard enough", Coulson said.

"Both Ghost and Taskmaster", Hill said. "Anyone else see SHADOW?"

"Yep", Coulson said. "How do we combat this?"

"I have no idea", Fury said.

 

Somewhere Else on the Helicarrier...

 

The Ghost and two other agents walked through the helicarrier, making their way to the bridge. The other seven agents were causing a problem on the runway to distract the Avengers and SHIELD agents. They were falling for the distraction.

The Ghost and two agents killed the SHIELD agents that tried to stop them. Then they got to the entrance of the bridge. Two SHIELD agents pulled out their guns but the Poseidon's Blood agents were faster. One of the agents threw a flash bang into the bridge.

After the flash, the three went into the room. The two agents killed any agent who tried to make a move for their weapons. The Ghost, however, went for Fury, Hill, and Coulson, who were around the table.

Fury reached for his gun but a throwing star cut his hand. Then the Ghost kicked him in the chest. Hill did grab her gun and fired. The Ghost was quick to move so Hill could not hit him. Once close enough, he knocked the gun out of her hand.

Hill tried to throw punches but the Ghost was fast. He blocked each punch then landed blows of his own. He saw she was getting tired. At his opening, he grabbed the back of her neck and forced her head down. Her head hit the railing and she fell to the floor unconscious.

The Ghost grabbed out his knife.

"Don't do it", Coulson yelled from the other side of the platform. He held his gun up.

The Ghost stayed still. His hand tightened around the hilt of the knife. He quickly dropped to his knees. Coulson fired but missed. The Ghost grabbed Hill's gun, spun around, and fired three shots. All three bullets hit Coulson in the chest. Coulson stumbled and fell back against the railing.

"Coulson", Fury yelled.

The Ghost ran at him. Fury tried again to grab his gun but the Ghost caught his arm and punched him. Fury did not have much time to recover before the Ghost hit him again. And again. And again. Suddenly, the Ghost felt something hit him in the back on his armor.

He stood up and turned around. A few yards away from him stood the redheaded Avenger. She lowered her gun and holstered it. She grabbed the batons from the pack on her back. Electricity started flowing through the two batons.

The Ghost unsheathed his sword. He ran at the Avenger. Natasha turned around and ran into the hallway. She knew she had to get the Ghost away from Fury. It also bought Yelena the opportunity to take out the two Poseidon's Blood agents.

Natasha ran a good distance away from the bridge before turning to face the Ghost. They quickly engaged in a fight. Much like the fight with the Devil, they moved fast. Natasha blocked his attacks and he blocked her attacks.

They moved through the hall as they fought. The Ghost's sword cut through the metal of the hall and cut through some pipes which released steam. Natasha's batons would bounce off the wall and short circuit whatever technology it touched.

The Ghost swung his sword against one of the batons. He did that again. He hit the same spot on the baton over and over again until the sword got stuck in the baton. The Ghost pushed her against the wall. He put his forearm against the blade and pushed.

Natasha struggled to maintain her hold on the baton. She was tired from the fight and her back was against a lone pipe, so it was making her back bend which was uncomfortable for her. Her eyes widened when the sword cut through what remained of the baton. The Ghost quickly grabbed Natasha's neck and threw her to the ground.

She still had one baton in her hand. Before she could get up, the Ghost grabbed her arm and the back of her suit and threw her against the wall. Natasha's head hit the ground with a thud. The Ghost put the sword back and ran down the hallway.

A few minutes later, Yelena came running down the hall. She saw Natasha on the ground not moving. She ran over to her.

"Natasha", Yelena said as she knelt down next to her sister. She started shaking her. "Natasha, please wake up", she whined. Yelena felt tears start to fall. "Please."

After another minute or two, Natasha finally stirred. She slowly opened her eyes and groaned. Yelena helped her sit up. Without a second thought, Yelena wrapped her arms around Natasha. The injured woman reciprocated.

"What happened", Natasha asked when they released.

"Clint beat the shit out of you."

Natasha gave her a weak smile. "In his defense, I beat the shit out of him when Loki took control of him. This was a long time coming."

Yelena gave her a small laugh while wiping away a tear. "Not the time, Natasha."

"Yeah, you're right. Where did Clint go?"

"I don't know."

"We have to find him. Help me up."

Yelena helped Natasha stand and they started going in the direction the Ghost may have gone.

The Ghost slammed the head of the tactical agent into the door. The door swung open and the agent hit the pavement of the runway. The Ghost impaled his knife into the agent's chest. He stood up and looked around.

The runway had become a full blown battle ground. The other five agents on the quinjet had exited and joined the fight as they were ordered and helped the seven other agents. There were four agents that were shooting at Mack and Daisy who managed to take cover behind stocked barrels.

Sam, Rhodey, and Tony, in their suits, were flying over head. The three were trying to not be hit by the laser bolts from the laser guns. Steve was fighting with the few agents who engaged him. Captain America beat them easily.

The Ghost looked at the quinjet they used and saw the Taskmaster buckling the jet down. He then turned to look at the Ghost.

"We're ready", the Taskmaster said.

"Good. Call them in." The Ghost made eye contact with Captain America. "All agents, prepare to magnetize on my command."

The Ghost walked over to Steve. The Poseidon's Blood agents stood down from attacking Steve. They focused on attacking Daisy and Mack because Yelena and Natasha joined the fight.

Steve stood ten feet away from the Ghost. Then, Iron Man and War Machine landed behind the Ghost. He turned around to face Tony.

"Hello, Stark."

"Who are you", Tony asked.

"I go by many names but I have always been partial to the Ghost."

"Cute." Tony raised his arm. "Wanna surrender now or get blasted first?"

The Ghost laughed. "Why would I do that?"

"Because you're outnumbered", Rhodey said.

"You can't beat us all", Steve added.

The Ghost turned his head to the side. "Wanna bet?" He turned his head to look back at Tony. "All agents magnetize", he whispered. His grip on the sword hilt tightened.

"What was your plan anyway", Tony asked.

"To watch SHIELD fall."

"And how were you going to fight us", Rhodey asked.

"Fight you? I was not going to fight you. My job is to distract you."

Tony looked at Steve then at Rhodey. Steve also looked at Rhodey. The War Machine flew up 30 or 40 feet and looked around. That is when he saw them.

"Tony, five long range ballistic missiles are a quarter of a mile out."

All time slowed down. The Ghost pierced the pavement with his sword and held on tight. Steve braced himself for impact. Tony was about to blast the Ghost but the missiles hit the belly of the carrier. The massive impact shaking the whole carrier.

The Ghost quickly removed the sword and spun around. The sword hit Tony's extended arm and it moved the arm to the side. The sword cut through the metal like nothing. Tony looked at it real quick. He was about to use the other repulsor but the Ghost cut through the arc reactor.

Tony stumbled as the suit shut down. The Ghost then raised the sword over his head and brought it back down. Tony quickly ejected himself out of the back of the suit before the Ghost cut it down the middle.

Tony landed on his back. The Ghost looked up and saw Rhodey helping Sam fly over the giant hole in the carrier. The Ghost then looked at Steve. The shield wielding soldier ran to the edge of the carrier to help agents who were hanging on to the sides.

Tony quickly recovered. He stood up, found a pipe, and grabbed it. He swung it at the Ghost but he caught the pipe. The Ghost turned around to look at Tony; his hand still holding the pipe.

Tony gulped. "I'm sorry", Tony said with fear.

The Ghost growled. He kicked Tony in the chest. Tony hit the ground. He flipped himself onto his chest and crawled. The Ghost put his foot on Tony's leg. Tony turned and tried to kick him off. The Ghost caught his leg and punched the side it. A part of Tony's leg bone coming out.

Tony screamed. The Ghost then slammed the sword into Tony's shoulder making him scream again. He pushed the blade in further. Tony screamed louder.

The Ghost looked straight ahead of them. Nothing but open blue skies. Then he moved his body to the left. A shield flew passed his head and bounced off a metal crate. The Ghost turned to look at Captain America. Steve caught the shield. The Ghost kicked Tony in the face to knock him out and removed the sword from his shoulder.

Captain America and the Ghost stared at each other. The two started walking towards each other. Another explosion rocked the helicarrier but it did not phase them. They started running. Steve stopped and threw the shield. The Ghost hit the shield with his sword and the shield fell to the ground.

When they were close enough, Steve threw a punch. The Ghost ducked under the punch and cut Steve's leg with his sword. Steve spun around but the Ghost moved away. The Ghost sheathed his sword.

Steve ran at him. The two got into a fast hand to hand fight. They were both fighting with incredible speed. Everyone else, not dead or unconscious, looked at the two. Even the Poseidon's Blood agents watched the fight.

To the spectators, they were a clear match for each other. That is, until Steve got the upper hand and put the Ghost in a head lock. Steve's height and strength giving him the advantage. The Ghost quickly removed his knife.

He plunged the knife into Steve's leg before removing it. The Ghost then plunged the knife into Steve's arm that was around his neck. Steve winced in pain. The Ghost elbowed his ribs, Steve's arms unwrapped from around his neck. The Ghost spun around and cut along Steve's chest.

Steve stumbled back but stayed on his feet. He looked down at his damaged suit. Lucky for him, the knife did not cut deep. Steve looked at the Ghost. He watched the masked assassin flip the knife in his hand.

The Ghost ran at Steve. He tried to cut him again but Steve dodged each attack. He dodged each attack until the Ghost kicked the knife wound on Steve's leg. Before Steve could recover, the Ghost grabbed Steve's head, brought it down, and his leg up. The armor on his leg making the impact worse for Steve.

Steve fell to the ground, still conscious. He tried to push himself up but the Ghost kicked him in the hand. So much force was used that Steve's helmet flew off his head. When Steve's head hit the pavement, his eyes were still open. His eye closed eventually because of all the pain.

The Ghost walked away from Steve only to have the War Machine land in front of him.

"You're gonna pay for that", Rhodey said.

Before Rhodey could engage the Ghost, Poseidon's Blood agents started shooting him. He turned to fire back but the Ghost quickly cut off the machine gun with his sword. Rhodey spun back around to try and hit the Ghost with his arm but the Ghost dodged the attack.

Suddenly, Rhodey was blown back by something. He looked at the agents. He saw one of them was holding a different gun than the others. The agent fired again. A blast wave blew Rhodey into two metal containers. The Ghost walked to the agents, removed a grenade from one of their belts, and threw it at Rhodey.

The grenade stuck to the suit and blew. The Ghost watched the smoke clear and the War Machine suit spark. He also noticed that there was no movement from Rhodey. He and the agents walked away.

"All agents to the jet", the Ghost said.

The agents shooting Daisy, Mack, Yelena, and Natasha threw smoke grenades. When the grenades went off, the agents ran to the jet. The agents shooting other SHIELD agents did the same.

The smoke finally cleared and the four agents came out from their respective hiding spots. They watched the agents run to their jet.

"We have to stop them", Daisy said.

"Negative", Fury said. "Get our agents inside, now. We've sustained too much damage."

"Understood, Director", Mack said.

Natasha, Daisy, and Mack began helping injured SHIELD agents get inside. Natasha recruited a few agents to help her get the Avengers. Yelena, however, had her focus on the Ghost. She watched him as he stood on the end of the ramp, letting the other agents get on board.

The Ghost watched the last agent get on the jet. He started walking up the ramp when he felt something hit his back and electrify him. The Ghost reached behind his back and removed the source of the electricity. He turned around and standing ten feet away was the blonde SHIELD agent.

Yelena stood boldly in front of the Ghost. She had the two batons connected to make the staff and held it with a tight grip. The Ghost walked down the ramp and removed his sword from the sheath. The helicarrier still blowing up around them.

"Mack is getting Tony and that should be everyone", Daisy said.

"Good", Natasha said. She looked around. "Where's Yelena?"

She and Daisy looked around. "She's over there", Daisy said.

Natasha looked at where Daisy was looking and saw Yelena standing a small distance away from the Ghost. Both had their weapons out. "Dammit, Yelena", Natasha said under her breath.

The Ghost walked toward Yelena. He swung his sword at her. She blocked it with her staff. Yelena swung her staff but the Ghost blocked her attack. The Ghost swung again, this time down the middle. Yelena's staff snapped in half when the sword hit it.

Yelena stumbled slightly but quickly recovered. The Ghost swung again, left to right, but Yelena flipped over the blade. When she landed, she swung her baton at his arm. The Ghost did not react. He grabbed the baton. He kicked her in the chest.

She fell back and let go of the baton. Yelena quickly got up but not in enough time to stop the Ghost from kicking her in the chest again. She grunted in pain when she hit the ground again. The other baton rolled out of her hand.

The Ghost walked over to her and grabbed her throat. He lifted her slightly off the ground. The Ghost lowered the sword to her neck but Yelena used her free hand to grab the hand holding the sword. Her other hand had a weak grip on the arm holding her neck.

"Clint...Please", Yelena rasped out.

Yelena could feel the life leaving her body. The Ghost was tightening his grip on her neck. She could feel herself becoming weaker. Her hand holding the one with the sword was shaking. The blade got closer and closer to her neck.

Suddenly, an explosion rocked the carrier. The Ghost let go of Yelena's neck. She put a hand on the ground to hold herself up and kicked the sword out of his hand. The Ghost looked at her about to react. She quickly got on her feet, punched him in the face, and removed his mask.

The Ghost stumbled and fell back. Natasha and Daisy looked at them from where they were standing. Yelena coughed and tried to catch her breath. She clutched the mask in her hand tightly. Yelena looked at the Ghost when he stood, his back to her. He slowly turned around to look at her.

"Holy shit", Daisy said when she saw the Ghost's face.

The Ghost kicked the sword up with his foot and walked to the jet. Once on board, it took off.

"Yelena", Natasha yelled.

Yelena watched the quinjet leave. She continued to stare at the jet as it disappeared into the sky. Natasha ran to her, grabbed her arm, and they ran back to where Daisy was waiting for them. The three women got into the helicarrier. The helicarrier falling straight down.

 

Two Hours Later...

 

The last of the quinjets arrived at the Triskelion. Fury ordered that all other SHIELD bases be on high alert and expect quinjets to arrive with wounded agents. He made sure though to have the Avengers and Daisy and Mack be brought to the Triskelion.

Tony went into surgery for his severe wounds. Lucky for him, it did not take long and the Ghost did not hit anything important. Steve and Rhodey got looked at by medics. Natasha, Yelena, Coulson, and Hill also looked at by medical. Everyone was relieved to see Coulson was okay. He learned from 2012 because he wore a vest this time. Not that a vest could protect him from the sword.

Fury gathered everyone into a conference room. By then, May finally woke up. She ignored the doctor's request and joined everyone in the conference room. Jemma and Fitz also joined them. As injured as he was, Tony was able to join them too. He had to be wheeled in though because of his leg injury. He was also groggy but alert.

As soon as everyone was in the conference room, Daisy started talking. She revealed the truth to the others about Clint being the guy in the black and gold suit. They were shocked as expected. Everyone started blurting out questions.

"Quiet", Fury yelled.

Everyone became silent. Coulson, Hill, and May were standing with Fury. They shared glances.

"I know you all have questions", Fury said.

"Yeah, no shit", Sam said. "Care to answer them?"

"I will, I promise."

"Really", Steve asked. "You seem to have a serious problem with telling the truth."

"Steve", Natasha said.

"Don't act innocent either", Daisy said. "You two did not look effected when his mask came off."

"Did you know", Steve asked.

Yelena and Natasha looked at each other. "Yes", Natasha said.

Chapter 25: The Man Before the Ghost

Notes:

Sorry this chapter is so late. I had so much going on last week that I never got the chance to write this chapter.

The room was quiet. The six who knew the truth about Clint could feel the anger radiating from the others. What they did not know was who are they all angry at. Steve had made it clear he was angry at Fury. So did Tony. That was before silence filled the room.

Fury walked over to May and whispered something in her ear. She nodded and walked out. No one asked any questions.

"So, are we just going to sit here in silence", Sam asked.

"What do you want to know", Coulson asked.

"Everything", Daisy said. "We want to know everything."

"And you will", Fury said. "When May gets back."

"Why are we waiting for her? She knows everything already", Steve said.

"You have to see it to believe it", Hill said.

"See what to believe what", Mack asked.

"The life of a ghost", Fury said.

A few minutes later, May walked into the conference room. She was carrying two file boxes in her arms. She set the boxes down on the floor. Hill walked over to the door, closed it, and pressed a button. The window glass of the conference room frosted over.

"What is going on", Tony asked.

"And how long have the windows been able to do that", Daisy asked.

"We added it during the reconstruction", Coulson said.

"And what's going on is that you are about to learn the truth about Agent Clint Barton", Fury said.

"Any and everything you are about to see does not leave this room", Coulson said.

Everyone looked at each other then looked at Fury. The director lifted one of the boxes and put it on the table. "In order to understand the Ghost, you must first know what made him." Fury lifted the lid to the box and grabbed out a file.

"We've read Clint's personnel file, Fury. We know his background", Steve said.

Coulson started laughing. "Yeah, no you have not."

"What does that mean", Tony asked.

"The personnel file you read on Barton was fake", Hill said.

Fury put the file on the table and slid it to Steve. "When he joined SHIELD, we made a fake one."

"Why", Sam asked as Steve picked up the file.

"As a cover for what Barton really did when he first started here", May said.

When Steve opened the file, his eyes widened.

 

* * * * * * * * * *

 

1987 (Age 8)

 

Clint kicked the old soccer ball through the very small separation between the two trash cans. When the ball went through the small space, someone behind him cheered. He turned around.

"Great job, honey", his mom, Edith, said as she pulled him into a hug. He happily wrapped his arms around her.

"Thanks, mom."

When the two separated, she rubbed Clint's cheek. "You never miss, do you?"

Clint smiled. "Not yet."

His smile faded when he heard the slamming of a car door. He and his mom turned to look at the dirt driveway of their worn down house. His older brother just got home. Clint felt his mom put her hand on his shoulder and gave him a reassuring squeeze.

It was no secret to his mom that he was scared of his brother. His older brother, Barney, is almost ten years older than him. That meant he worked to provide but he also expected Clint and their mom to do some of the responsibilities.

Barney was also significantly bigger than Edith. As perceptive as Clint is, he knows that Barney is beating on their mother even though she tries to hide it. Clint did not know why his brother would do that but he was too scared to say anything. He was especially scared the night he heard Edith plead to Barney to not touch his brother.

Clint shook slightly in fear when his older brother walked past them. He opened the door to the house and walked inside. When the door closed, Clint started to cry. Edith got on her knees and held her crying son.

 

Later That Day...

 

Clint sat in his small bedroom. He was on the bed reading a book. The bedroom may have been small but it was cozy for him. He had a few books on a shelf and some CDs next to the books. He did not have much possessions but he did not care.

He looked up from the book when he heard the sound of yelling. He instantly recognized it as his brother. The yelling was followed by screaming. That is when fear began to take over. He knew that Barney was once again beating on their mother.

Clint threw the book to the side and looked out the window. The sounds were to quiet to be coming from inside the house. He looked around and saw them. Barney was on top of Edith. He was punching her in the face and yelling at her. Clint could not make out what he was yelling but knew it angered him.

Hearing his mom scream again caused a sudden change in his demeanor. Fear and loneliness quickly became anger. Clint exited his room and entered Barney's room. He found the case under his brother's bed and opened it.

Clint ran outside and stood a few yards away from the two. "Stop", Clint yelled.

"Go inside, Clint", Barney yelled back as he began chocking Edith.

BANG

Barney felt something pierce his back. He sat up and looked down at his chest. A red spot got bigger and bigger. He fell to the side and hit the ground.

Edith coughed when Barney fell over. She sat up and looked at her dead son. Then she looked at her other son. Clint was on his knees crying loudly. Edith quickly got up and ran to her son. She wrapped her arms around him as he cried over what he just did. The gun dropped to the ground because of his shaking hands.

Edith kissed his head. "You're okay, baby."

"I'm sorry, mom", he cried.

"You have nothing to apologize for, Clint." She pulled him back to look in his puffy red eyes. "You did that to save me. You did nothing wrong." Clint nodded before Edith pulled him back into her arms.

 

1990 (Age 11)

 

"But why does he use a bow and arrow and not a gun", Clint asked as he and his mom walked through the carnival.

Edith laughed. "Clint, I don't think they had guns in the Middle Ages."

"Why is it called the Middle Ages? Are we living in the big ages?"

"No. Maybe the late ages. I don't know", Edith said right before she walked into someone. "Oh, I'm so sorry", she said as she put her hand behind her back.

"Are you okay", the man asked.

"No, my head is spinning trying to keep up with this guy." The two started walking away.

"Hey, don't ware your sister out", the man said.

"She's my mom", Clint replied.

"Don't keep the conversation going", Edith whispered.

"Right, sorry."

Edith looked through the man's wallet and sighed. "Only a few bucks." She threw the wallet in the trash can after taking out the cash. When they stopped walking, Clint smiled and lifted up his hand to show her the watch. "That's my little guy", she said crouching down to Clint's eye level.

Clint giggled. "Did I do a good job?"

"You did a great job. Let's go play some games, you've earned it." Clint smiled and ran to the first game he saw.

"Three shots, try your luck, hit a duck", the man said.

Clint took the pellet gun in his hands. "You got it", Edith said.

Clint aimed the gun at the moving ducks. He waited a second before firing. When he fired, the pellet hit the wall.

"Bad luck, big shot. Two left."

"There's no luck about it. My kid never misses. Your game is rigged."

Clint aimed the gun again. He took a deep breath before firing the second shot. That one knocked a duck down. He fired again and a second duck dropped. Edith smiled smug like at the shocked man.

"That was really good", she said to Clint. "Which one do you want?" Clint pointed. "We will choose that one please", she said to the man.

 

The Next Day...

 

Clint sat on the sidewalk of the gas station food mart. He could feel the presence of the police officer behind him. Clint turned his head when the door opened. He watched his mom walk out in handcuffs and an officer guiding her to a cop car.

"Mom, I'm sorry. I missed."

Edith looked at him. "You don't miss." The officer put her in the car.

Clint sighed as the police car drove away. He had no idea if what he did was right or wrong. A part of him felt like he did something wrong. He turned his mother in for trying to steal to provide for them. The other part of him said he did the right thing. He did not feel good lying and stealing.

 

1991 (Age 12)

 

Clint ran around the front yard with two of the other foster kids. He was brought to this foster home seven months ago. The two story house was nice for the seven people that live in it. He shared a room with another boy his age.

The family was very nice and welcoming to him. No one pushed him to opening up. The first couple of months, Clint was quiet and ignored the rest of the family most of the time. When he did open up, he became an entirely new person.

It was the day before his birthday and the house was full of whispers. Clint knew that they were planning on throwing him a party. None of them knew he had enhanced hearing. He sat on his bed, reading through a comic book, while the rest of the family talked down stairs.

Clint's interest was peaked when he heard the doorbell ring. He hopped off the bed and ran to the window. His bedroom window faced the main road in the neighborhood which meant he could see who comes to the house. He saw a police car parked in front of the house.

He quirked his brow and walked to the door. He opened it and walked out. He stood at on the edge of the staircase and listened.

"You two took in Clint Barton, correct", the officer asked.

"Yes", Daniel said.

"Is there a problem", Elizabeth asked.

"Unfortunately, yes. Are you both aware of his mother's past?"

"Yes", they both said.

The officer sighed. "His mother was killed in a prison riot yesterday."

A ringing instantly overtook Clint's ears. He felt his eyes well with tears. Clint turned around and ran into the bedroom. He slammed the door behind him.

"Clint", Elizabeth yelled. She and Daniel heard the door slam. The four other foster kids walked into the living room when they heard the commotion. "Clint", Elizabeth yelled again. She ran up the stairs and tried to open the door but it was locked.

She walked back down the stairs and looked at her family. They all sat in the living room silently. Daniel finished talking with the officer. Daniel and Elizabeth spoke quietly in the kitchen.

Later that night, Elizabeth went back up the stairs with a plate of food in her hand. She knocked softly on the door. When there was no answer, she tried opening the door. It opened. She walked in and looked around. Clint was no where to be seen. She just about dropped the plate when she saw the open window and Clint's clothes gone.

 

1995 (Age 16)

 

Clint walked around the small corner store. He grabbed an item and put it in his backpack. He was careful to not look suspicious when someone walked past him. Clint grabbed the final item of food he needed and put it in his backpack.

"Hey, kid."

Clint turned his head to where the voice came from. "What?" He was looking at an employee.

"What did you put in your backpack?"

"Nothing."

"That's bullshit. Come here", the employee said as he stepped closer.

"No", Clint said as he took a step back.

"Come here", the employee said as he lunged at Clint.

Clint jumped back. He turned around and took off running out of the store. The employee ran after him with another employee behind him. There were two officers talking outside the store when Clint ran past them.

The employees told the two officers what Clint did. The two officers took off after Clint. He had a good head start but they quickly caught up to him. Lucky for Clint, he scouted the area before taking the items.

They ran five blocks before Clint turned down an alley way. The officers still on his tail. It took Clint a split second to notice the fire escape with the ladder still up. He ran towards the brick wall at the end of the alley.

Clint jumped, kicked himself off the wall, and grabbed the railing of the balcony. He pulled himself up and over the railing. He ran up the fire escape. The two officers stopped to catch their breaths while they watched Clint go up the fire escape.

"Who the hell is that kid", one of the officers asked as Clint got to the roof of the building.

"I don't know but he's impressive. I've never seen anyone do that before", the other officer replied.

Clint climbed down the fire escape that was on the other side of the building. He looked around and saw no one with a badge. He threw his hood over his head and started walking among the crowd.

 

1997 (Age 18)

 

Clint stood in the parking lot of the restaurant that was just outside the city limits. He watched people go inside and people leave. He waited until he had the perfect opportunity to move. A blue SUV pulled into the parking lot and that is when he made his move. No one else was outside.

He walked in the direction of the car looking down. The driver of the car exited and locked his car and put his keys in his jacket pocket. Clint walked toward him and bumped him.

"Sorry", the man said.

"It's alright", Clint said.

When the guy walked away, Clint turned around and walked to the car. He looked at the keys in his hand and smiled. The skills his mom taught him really came in handy. Clint unlocked the car and climbed into the vehicle.

He put the key in the ignition. Clint backed out of the parking space and that is when he saw the owner of the car run out. He put the car in drive and sped onto the highway.

Clint drove for about an hour until Sheriff deputies ran him off the road. One of the deputies put cuffs on Clint while the other looked up who he was. Clint was smart enough to comply and give them his name.

A third Sheriff car pulled up next to them. The owner of the car got out. He spoke with the officer that was looking up Clint's name. After three minutes of talking, the owner walked over to Clint who had his head down.

A deputy walked with him. The deputy unlocked the handcuffs and walked away. Clint rubbed his wrists without looking up. The owner of the car stood in front of Clint.

"You care to look at me, son", he asked. Clint stayed silent and did not look up. "Okay, guess not. My name is Alex Thompson."

"So", Clint muttered.

"Well, I want to let you know that I am not bringing up charges."

Clint looked up at him. "Why would you do that?"

"Those deputies told me about you."

"So you're taking pity on me?"

"No. I'm offering you a second chance to fix your life."

"What?"

"I may have dropped charges but you still have open arrest warrants for past crimes of GTA, theft, larceny, and evading police, and more. You come with me, I can make those charges disappear."

"How?"

"I'm a major in the Marine Corps. I lead a Special Forces unit and I'm looking for a new recruit."

Clint nodded. "What do I have to do?"

"Join the Marines. Go through and finish basic training. I'll make sure you're assigned to my base and my unit."

"Don't Special Forces go through more training?"

"They do but I'll make sure you get that training when you're a part of my unit."

"Why are you doing this for me?"

"Because I've been in your position, Clint. I owe my life to the man who pulled me out of my former life. So, what do you say?"

"Is there a catch?"

"Just one. How good of a shot are you?"

Clint smirked.

 

2002 (Age 23)

 

Clint leaned against the humvee. He and one of his teammates just returned from providing cover fire for a team of soldiers stuck in a village. The rest of his team was busy playing basketball on the court that was installed two years ago. He watched them play.

"Gather up", Major Thompson yelled as he walked next to Clint. The team stopped and walked over to their superior. "The Colonel just got word that an infiltration on a classified mission is pinned down by rebels. We have to provide cover for them."

"All of us", Clint asked.

"Yep. Lot's of rebels."

"That means lots of targets", a team member said excitedly.

"Let's go", Major Thompson yelled.

The six put on their gear and got into two humvees. Major Thompson climbed into the humvee with Clint while the other four were in the other humvee.

 

The Next Morning...

 

Clint slowly and tiredly walked through the desert. He covered his eyes because the wind was blowing sand into his face. His other hand was still clutching the knife he used to kill the rebels just a few hours ago. Blood was all over his face and uniform.

He walked for another hour before he saw his base.

"Get on your knees", a soldier yelled. "Now."

Clint dropped to his knees and put his hands up. Soldiers ran over to him. Clint did not try to tell them who he was as they forced him onto the ground. The knife dropping out of his hand. His mind was still focused on the events that took place the night before.

"Someone get the Colonel", a soldier yelled. "It's Master Sergeant Barton."

"Then where are the other Birds", another soldier asked.

A few minutes later, Colonel Williams ran over to Clint. A few soldiers behind him. He crouched down and tried speaking to his soldier. Clint did not reply. He did not even move. He was staring off into space. Colonel Williams tried snapping to get Clint's attention but he did not react.

"What do we do, Sir", a soldier asked.

"I'm not sure." A medic ran over to them but Clint swatted his hand away. The medic looked at the Colonel. "Roberts", Williams yelled.

"Sir?"

"Find Sergeant Wolfe."

"Yes, Sir." Roberts ran off to find the other Marine.

"Why are you getting Wolfe", one of the soldiers asked.

"She's the only one who can get Barton to talk", Williams said.

A few minutes passed and Clint was still silent. More soldiers gathered around them. Clint avoided eye contact with all of them. His eyes were still staring at the ground. He heard Colonel Williams tell the small gathering of soldiers to step back.

Clint felt a soft hand on his cheek. He knew right away that the hand belonged to Vanessa Wolfe. She crouched down and put her other hand on Clint's other cheek. She made him look up at her. When Clint's eyes landed on Vanessa's eyes, he broke. He threw himself into her arms.

"I screwed up, Nessa", Clint whispered.

"It's okay, Clint." Vanessa put a hand on the back of Clint's head. "What happened, Clint?"

 

One Hour Later...

 

Vanessa and Clint were sitting on the small bed in the trailer home where he and his unit slept. Clint was drinking from a water bottle trying to calm down. His whole body shaking because the adrenaline was still wearing off. Vanessa took notice and grabbed his hand.

"Something inside me snapped", Clint said. "Something that has been inside of me for years finally snapped."

"Clint, your whole team was killed in front of you. That reaction is normal."

"What part of that was normal? I killed all of them." Clint turned his head to look at his best friend. "I don't think I can go back out there, Nessa. What do I do?"

Vanessa removed her hand from Clint. She wrapped her arms around him and hugged him. Vanessa kissed his cheek. "We'll figure something out, Clint. You're not alone. I promise."

 

Nine Months Later...

 

Clint walked through the base to where the Commanding Officer told him to report. After taking a few months off, Vanessa told him about an EOD position. His Special Forces training meant he learned how to disarm bombs. He walked up to the soldier working on the humvee. The soldier turned around to look at Clint.

"You must be our new bomb tech", he asked.

"That's me. Sergeant Clint Barton", Clint said extending his hand.

"Sam Wilson. I'm your cover." Sam took his hand.

"Nice to meet you, Wilson."

"Nice to meet you too, Barton."

 

2004 (Age 25)

 

Clint closed the door to his small one bedroom apartment. He took a sip from his coffee cup in his hand. He walked over to the couch and sat down. He leaned his head back and closed his eyes.

It had been two months since Clint got home from his EOD tour. He was thinking about re-enlisting until he talked to Vanessa. She reminded him about the nightmares he had while on tour. He still has nightmares but they have lessened since getting home.

Now, he is an unemployed, 25 year old, former Marine. He opened his eyes when he heard a knock on his door. Clint got up and walked over to the door. When he opened it, he was not expecting to see a man in a suit and tie wearing glasses at his door.

"Mr. Barton?"

"Yes", Clint said skeptically. "Can I help you?"

"My name is Phil Coulson. I'm from the Strategic Homeland Intervention Enforcement and Logistics Division."

Clint blinked a few times. "In the time it took you to say that, a toddler had his 18th birthday."

Coulson sighed. "I'm aware it's a long title. We're working on it. May I come in?"

Clint moved to the side and Coulson walked in. "What can I do for you?"

"I'm here to offer you a job."

"Offer me a job?"

Coulson nodded. "Yes. You have a unique skill set that we can utilize."

Clint quirked his brow. "A unique skill set?"

"Yes." Coulson put a small card down on the table. "Come to the address on that card tomorrow at 10:30. You can see what we are all about."

"Um... Okay."

Coulson walked out of the apartment. Clint walked over to the table and picked up the business card. He was surprised that they have business cards.

 

The Next Day...

 

Clint's eyes widened when he saw the building he was asked to come to. He always wondered what the purpose of the large, oddly shaped building was. When he walked inside, he was met by people in suits, much like the man who visited him the day before.

He looked around some more and also saw large men dressed in all black. He did not need to ask them to know they were members of tactical teams.

"What kind of place is this", Clint asked outloud.

"This is the Triskelion. Our main headquarters", someone said from behind Clint. He turned around to face the person. A taller man with an eye patch and black overcoat faced him. "My name is Nick Fury. I'm the director here."

Clint chuckled softly. "Of course you are."

"Come with me."

Clint and Fury went up the escalators to the main lobby of the building. Clint looked around at the building as they walked. The advanced technology really caught his attention. They stepped in the elevator and Clint's attention immediately went to the beauty of the city.

The elevator stopped on the 43rd floor. The two stepped off and walked to a conference room. When they entered, there were 4 other people sitting at the table.

"You've already met Phil Coulson", Fury said. "This is Maria Hill, our Operations Commander, Melinda May is our chief instructor, and Valentina Fontaine, the chief scientist."

Clint shook their hands. Then he turned to Fury. "Your man in black over there said you wanted to offer me a job."

"I do want to offer you a job", Fury said. He walked over to the table and joined his four agents. "You have a very unique skill set that we can use, Clint Barton."

"What skill set?"

"During your last tour as a Marine, your team was killed. You then killed the people who did it."

"How do you know about that?"

"Doesn't matter", Valentina said. "You took out a small army worth of heavily armed men with noting but a knife and your fists."

"That is not something just anyone can say", Hill said.

"You want to hire me because I killed a whole bunch of bad guys that killed my team?"

"There is a little more that goes into it but yes", Coulson said.

Clint nodded. "What would I be doing?"

"Taking out high priority targets", Fury said.

"Sou you want an assassin?"

"Yes. An assassin that can work in the shadows. An assassin that is fast and light on his feet and does not disobey orders."

Clint nodded. "Anything else?"

"Just one thing, you cannot leave any witnesses."

Clint thought about it for a second. Everyone stared at him. "Okay, I'm in."

 

* * * * * * * * * *

 

Everyone in the room was shocked. Steve set the personnel file back down. Natasha grabbed it and began looking at it. She grabbed the police record on Edith Barton and looked at it.

"How come we didn't know any of this", Steve asked.

"Because no one could know the truth", Coulson said.

Yelena stood up from the chair she occupied and walked out of the room. When the door opened, the windows defrosted. Everyone watched her leave. Natasha sighed after she saw her sister walk away.

"What's her problem? I thought she knew about this", Tony said.

"Clint never told us about his past", Natasha said. Everyone looked at her. "He told us about his military service but that was it. We would ask questions but he would shut us down quick. He never liked to talk about his past."

"Can't blame him", Daisy said.

"So all that led to the Ghost", Rhodey asked.

"Yes", May said.

"Why is he called the Ghost", Mack asked.

Fury grabbed another file from the box. He opened it and took out the photos. He slid them across the table so the others could see. "Because no one ever saw him coming."

The others were in shock of the photos. Jemma gasped and covered her mouth. Steve closed his eyes and turned his head to the side. The photos were from a mission performed by the Ghost. The photos were of very bloody body parts, sliced throats, and dead children. The dead children was definitely what made the photos hard to look at.

"He killed kids", Daisy asked in disbelief. Her eyes landing on Coulson and May. The latter turning her head to avoid eye contact.

"It was a part of the 'leave no witnesses' part", Hill said.

"I can't believe he was able to stomach this", Sam said.

Coulson put the other box on the table and let them go through it. Natasha being the only one who avoided looking at it. She was still engrossed in the personnel file. She knew Clint had a fake one but she has never seen his real one.

"How does it work", Steve asked. "The separation between Clint and the Ghost."

"When the Ghost would be a mission necessity, I would activate GHOST Protocol. It was technically the first generation Project Insight."

"You would order him and that's it", Tony asked.

"No. It takes three levels of command to activate it. The director of SHIELD, the Secretary of State overseeing SHIELD, and the World Security Council."

"The Security Council and Pierce knew about it", Steve asked.

"Yep", Coulson said.

"How come Clint wasn't like this when Loki took control of him", Tony asked.

"Because Loki did not know about the Ghost", Hill said.

"The Ghost has to be ordered to do something", May added.

"So there is a difference between Clint and the Ghost", Daisy asked.

"They have the same face but the Ghost is a separate entity. A completely different mind set", Natasha said. "Clint has to be ordered to let the Ghost take control. That's what Valentina did when she somehow took control of Clint. She gave orders to the Ghost."

"I can't believe Clint spent six years doing this", Tony said as he read through a GHOST mission.

"What finally made him stop", Sam asked.

Fury looked in the direction of Natasha. He was expecting to see her sitting there but the chair was empty. He looked at the window and saw Natasha already in the hall going in the same direction as Yelena. No one saw her walk out of the room.

"They did", he said as he stared at the two empty seats held by Yelena and Natasha.

Notes:

Sorry this chapter is shorter than I wanted it to be. I really wish that the young Clint scenes with his mom were not deleted in Hawkeye. It would have given him so much characterization.

Chapter 26: GHOST Protocol: Operation Widow

Fury took out a file from the box. He slid it across the table to Steve. "Operation Widow", the director said.

Steve opened it. "Why does this mission look different", he asked.

"It's a combination of six GHOST missions", Coulson said.

"Clint killed five Black Widows before being sent after Natasha", Rhodey asked.

"Yes. Identifying the five women as Black Widows was the hard part", Hill said.

Steve began reading the last mission in the file. The mission where the Ghost was ordered to go after Natasha.

 

* * * * * * * * * *

 

Clint sat at his desk going through the paper work on the mission the Ghost just completed. The mission got complicated. He was ordered to protect a man from a vigilante in the shadows and find who the vigilante.

The Ghost ended up killing the man he was supposed to protect and becoming friends with the vigilante following him.

Clint looked up when Fury walked into his office. "I have another mission for you."

"Already? I just got back from one."

"I'm aware but you screwed that one up."

"The man was screwing SHIELD. I did what I had to do."

"I know, Barton."

"What's the mission, Sir?"

Fury turned around and closed the door. "GHOST Protocol has been activated." Clint's demeanor changed entirely. Fury handed him a file. "This is Alec Mikhail. He is a black market arms dealer who has been selling weapons to just about every enemy you can imagine."

"Am I dropping him?"

"No. The Security Council got information that there may be an assassination attempt."

"By who?"

"They don't know. I'm sending you to an old friend who may be able to identify our assassin. Then you watch over Mikhail. INTERPOL, the CIA, the FBI, and many other agencies want him alive. That means do not kill him."

"I will certainly try my best. Where am I going after I visit our informant?"

"Budapest."

LOCATION: Hamburg, Germany
TIME: 10:19

The two large men patted down Clint's legs. He rolled his eyes as he kept his arms out until they finished checking him for weapons. When they stopped, one of them guided Clint inside the mansion. They walked to the backyard of the mansion.

Clint saw a man sitting at a table next to a large pool. Clint also saw four other large men surrounding him. The men stared at Clint as he sat down at the table.

"You've obviously improved security since last we talked", Clint said.

The man smirked. "Being an informant for SHIELD does not exactly guarantee my safety."

Clint chuckled. "True. Do you have what we asked for?" He handed Clint a file. Clint opened it and instantly slammed it down on the table. "Are you fucking joking? This is nothing but black ink."

"Do not worry, Agent Barton. I know the information you want."

"Then talk."

The man leaned back in his chair. "The assassin you want is a Black Widow."

Clint crossed his arms. "Really?"

"Yes. You have experience with Black Widows?"

"SHIELD has dealt with a few of them."

"Good."

"What do you know about her?"

"Her name is Natalia Alianovna Romanova. She is one of the Red Room's finest."

"The Red Room?"

"That is the organization that trains the Black Widows. It is led by General Dreykov."

"How do you know that?"

"Before SHIELD found me and blackmailed me, I was Dreykov's spy in the Kremlin."

"Blackmail is a bit harsh don't you think?"

"No, it's true. Anyway, this Black Widow is different."

"How?"

"She is the highest performing Black Widow. More kills than anyone else in the Red Room. She sets herself apart by being Dreykov's go to assassin for high priority targets like Mikhail."

"So she's more dangerous than other Black Widows?"

"Much much more dangerous. My recommendation to you is do not underestimate her. Natalia's skill is only matched by her beauty."

Clint quirked his brow. "You've seen her?"

"Dreykov brought her here once. She is quite beautiful."

"Good for her but I don't care how beautiful she is. Now, tell me where she is."

"She is with Mikhail. She is his company while he is in Budapest."

"And you're sure of this?"

"Have I ever steered you wrong, Agent Barton?"

"You really want to go there?"

The man smirked. "Need anything else?"

Clint stood. "I have all I need."

"Then good luck to you, Agent Barton. You are going to need it."

"Don't worry. I won't be the one to fight her."

Clint walked out of the mansion. One of the guards handed Clint back his gun and knife.

LOCATION: Budapest, Hungary
TIME: 13:19

The Ghost stood on the roof of the building across from the one he was watching. His eyes focused on the helicopter on the roof. He knew that it was Mikhail's helicopter. He noticed the helicopter blade start to spin.

The door to the roof opened and three men in suits walked out. They were followed by two people with their arms linked. Those two were followed by three more men in suits. The Ghost focused on the two people with linked arms. He identified Mikhail.

His eyes then went to the red haired woman that Mikhail was speaking with. He could not help but agree with the informant, the assassin is beautiful. He watched them walk to the helicopter then everything changed.

The Ghost watched the woman stop walking. She spun around and took out one of the three guards behind her. Grabbing the gun from his belt, she killed the other two guards. She spun back around holding the gun in one hand and used guard's dead body as a shield. Mikhail took cover behind the helicopter.

The other three guards shot at her. The body she was holding up protected her from their gunshots. She shot and killed two of them. The last guy, already in the helicopter, used the door as cover.

The Ghost took out his bow. He fired an arrow at the last guard. The arrow pierced the window like paper and struck the guard. The woman spun around but something knocked the gun out of her hand. She looked at where the gun landed and saw an arrow.

Another arrow struck the roof a few feet away from the assassin. She quirked her brow before a small blast wave from the arrow knocked her off her feet. He fired another arrow at the pilot.

The Ghost fired a fourth arrow at the roof. This arrow stuck itself to the roof with a rope attached. He slid down the rope like a zip line. Once he landed on the roof, he clutched the bow tighter in his hand. He remembered what the informant said about this particular Black Widow.

She got to her feet and looked at the Ghost. Without a second thought, she started attacking him. The Ghost dodged the attacks but was careful to not become arrogant. Mikhail came out from behind the helicopter and watched the fight.

The Ghost ducked under her kick and punched her in the chest. She stumbled back and could not react fast enough to dodge the bow hitting her across the face. She tried to push herself back up but she felt a kick to her chest.

The Black Widow grunted in pain. She did so again when the Ghost stomped on her back. She did not have the energy to push herself up again. She heard the Ghost take a step back before turning away from her.

The Ghost looked at Mikhail. The scared arms dealer started stepping back when the Ghost started walking toward him. Mikhail felt his leg hit the edge of the roof. He briefly looked down before looking up at the Ghost.

The man in the black and gold suit stopped two feet away from Mikhail. The arms dealer could not say a word before the Ghost kicked him over the edge. The man screamed the whole way down until he hit the ground.

The Ghost turned around when he heard moaning. The assassin he just beat was trying to crawl away. Her strength giving out before she could get far. She turned her head to look the Ghost in the eye. He aimed his bow at her. An arrow ready to fire.

 

* * * * * * * * * *

 

"That's it? That's the end of the report", Steve asked.

"Yes, that is how Barton finished the report", Coulson said.

"Did he not have time to finish the report", Daisy asked.

"He couldn't finish it because that is where the Ghost's mission stopped", Fury said. "What happened after was Barton disobeying my orders like he has many other times before."

"Why wasn't it written down", Sam asked.

"Because how those two joined SHIELD cannot be known", May said.

"Why not", Tony asked as he fidgeted with a pencil to keep himself awake.

"World governments including ours do not know the truth about Romanov and Belova. If they were to find out, SHIELD could not exactly guarantee their safety."

"So their files are complete BS too", Mack asked.

"No", Coulson said.

"Not to Barton's extent anyway", May said.

"He kept everything off the record to prevent any questioning from government officials", Fury said.

"And you and the Security Council were okay with what he did", Steve asked.

Fury stared at him. "No", he said while shaking his head.

A knock on the door turned their attention away from Fury. Coulson opened the door. An agent whispered something in his ear before walking away. Coulson closed the door and walked back to where he was standing next to Fury. "We just got word that Secretary Ross was attacked in his office last night. Someone cut his wrist before knocking him out."

"Is he alive", Tony asked.

"Yes. He was taken to the hospital early this morning when his security found him."

"Any witnesses", Rhodey asked.

"No. Ross is the only one who knows who did it."

"Great", Steve started, "Ross gets attacked the night before we do. That is not a coincidence."

"Unfortunately, I agree", Fury said.

 

Elsewhere in the Triskelion...

 

Natasha stepped off the elevator and started to look in each room for Yelena. The redhead not knowing exactly where her sister went but had a good idea. She walked a good distance away before arriving at where she suspected Yelena to be hiding. She was right.

Natasha stared at Yelena sitting in the chair behind the desk in Clint's office. Yelena was looking at a photo she was holding. Natasha could not figure out what the picture was. If she had to guess, it was a picture of Yelena and Natalie that Clint took shortly after Natalie was born.

Natasha knocked softly on the open door. Yelena looked at her sister. "How are you doing", Natasha asked with a soft smile. "I know that was hard to hear."

"I'm not good, Natasha", Yelena said as she placed the frame back on the desk.

Natasha walked into the office. "I wonder what Clint is going to say when he finds out that we know about his past."

"He is probably going to be relieved. The problem will be that he did not get the chance to tell us himself."

"Yeah", Natasha said while nodding. "He won't be happy." She looked at Yelena who was looking down. "Anything you want to talk about?"

Yelena slowly looked at Natasha. "I don't know what to say, Natasha."

Natasha sat on the couch. She patted the open spot next to her. Yelena got up from the desk chair and sat next to Natasha. "So you don't have anything to say?"

"I guess I am still processing it all." Yelena leaned her head on Natasha's shoulder. "Is it weird I was hoping it was not Clint under the mask?"

Natasha chuckled softly. "No, it is not weird. I didn't want it to be him either."

"What are we going to do, Natasha? If we cannot fight him without dying then how do we save him?"

"I don't know, but we are gonna figure something out. I promise we will, okay?"

Yelena nodded. She felt tears start to stream down her face. Natasha wrapped her arms around Yelena and let the younger woman cry into her shoulder. She had tears of her own start to well in her eyes. She was not crying over what happened to Clint but rather what it is doing to Yelena.

They spent the next few minutes like that.

When they broke apart, Natasha wiped a tear off of Yelena's cheek. Natasha moved her hand to grab Yelena's own. Yelena began laughing among her sniffling.

"What's so funny", Natasha asked.

"I did not think I could ever feel this away about someone. I mean I care about Clint deeply but it's crazy to think about how far I have come since the day he recruited us."

Natasha smiled and nodded. "He humanized you. He humanized us both."

Yelena smiled. "He did so much for us when we started here even though he was fighting his own demons."

"Because he cares about us."

"Yeah, he does", Yelena said. Her smile grew. "I remember when he would train with me after hours."

"He did", Natasha asked surprised.

"It was when I was still a cadet. He found me training alone one night. It was late and I guess he was concerned about me."

"What makes you think that?"

"He asked me how everything was going and if May was working out well. He asked me about all my classes and made sure everyone was treating me well."

Natasha huffed out a laugh. "Sounds like he was concerned."

"Do you think he did that because he had feelings for me?"

"No. He would have helped you regardless of his feelings for you. It's who he is."

Yelena gave her a weak smile. "He and I would train for hours. That training is the only reason I survived as long as I did against the Ghost."

"What do you mean?"

"When we trained, he did not hold back." Yelena smiled at the memories. "He beat me so many times. I would be lucky if I hit him once."

Natasha laughed. "He didn't go easy on you did he?"

"He would when we started. Knowing what I know now, he took it easy because he knew he could beat me. As time went on, he would make it more difficult. He finally started telling me how he always beat me. He said he studied my fighting style, so he told me to change my fighting style throughout the fight to keep my opponent from beating me."

"Clint told you that?"

Yelena nodded. "That is exactly what I did when I fought the Ghost, but little good it did me."

"Yelena, he trained with you. He helped you learn new fighting skills. The important thing is that you are still alive." Natasha looked at Yelena. The blonde woman fidgeting with her hands. "Do you love him, Yelena?"

Yelena looked at Natasha. "I don't know. What if I do?"

"Then you have to tell him. I know he returns the feeling."

"You are the one who says love is for children."

"True, but happiness is different. And to me, your happiness is important. Clint makes you happy. I mean, you were smiling when you remembered him beating you every time you trained." Yelena smiled. "So I ask again, do you love him?"

Yelena looked down at her hands again. She nodded. "I love him, Natasha."

Natasha smiled. "Then you have to tell him."

"I will if we get him back."

"No, not if we get him back but when we get him back."

Yelena nodded slowly. "Do you remember when Clint first recruited us?"

"Of course I do. I will never regret taking his hand that day."

 

* * * * * * * * * *

 

The Ghost stood over her, the string of the bow still pulled back. He looked right in the eye of the female assassin. She had no energy to move and her body was still in a lot of pain. The Ghost, out of nowhere, slowly put the string back in resting position. He put the arrow back in the quiver.

He slowly stepped toward her. He extended his hand. She did not know why but she took his hand. Something inside of her said she could trust him. The Ghost helped her stand up. She winced when she stood. The Ghost put an arm around her to support her.

They silently went to the apartment that the Ghost was using. When they were inside, she sat on the couch while the Ghost made sure they were not followed. When he got back, he gave the assassin an ice pack for her back. He also gave her a water bottle.

She was still tense and wary of every one of the Ghost's movements. The only problem being that she had no weapon to fight back. She is not even sure if she could fight him in her current state.

"You don't need to sit there and stare at me", he said. His back turned to her while he put his gear away.

"I am not staring at you", she replied.

Clint chuckled. "Yeah you are." He turned to look at her. His hand grabbed the mask and pulled it off himself. "My name is Clint Barton. I'm an agent of SHIELD."

She quirked her brow. "Why are you telling me this? A good operative would know how to keep his mouth shut."

"A good operative also would not allow herself to get caught. Especially a Black Widow; yet here we are", Clint retorted.

The tiniest of smirks appeared on Natasha's face. "Touche."

"I don't much about you so why don't you enlighten me."

She squinted at him. "You already know enough."

"I do know enough. Your name is Natalia Alianovna Romanova. You are an operative for the Red Room and one of the most dangerous assassins in the world."

She was shocked by what he just said. "How do you know all that?"

"Doesn't matter. I also know that you have been looking for weapons or an exit ever since you walked through that door." Clint grabbed his own bottle of water. "Believe me, the feeling is mutual."

"What feeling?"

"The feeling of zero trust. You don't know me. I was the person who was ordered to kill you and I didn't. I am not expecting you to trust me because of that. I don't know you and I don't trust people right away."

The conversation died after that. Clint spent the time removing his suit and putting on his SHIELD uniform. He walked out of the bedroom partly expecting to see her gone. He was impressed she was still on the couch.

"We need to get out of here", Clint said as he started packing up his gear.

"What are talking about?"

"We have to leave right now. Mikhail and his guards must have been found by now."

"I am not leaving."

Clint rolled his eyes. "Why not?"

"Because I am not going anywhere without my sister."

Clint stopped what he was doing. He turned to look at her. "There's something I didn't know."

"I am not leaving her with the Red Room."

Clint thought for a second. "Do you know how to find her?"

"No, but I know someone who does."

"Dreykov?" Clint saw the slight change in her demeanor. "You cannot take on Dreykov alone."

"Do you have any ideas? He is the only one who knows how to find my sister."

"Yes, actually I do. And this idea probably won't get us killed."

"Probably?"

"It's either probably won't get us killed or definitely will get us killed. Pick one."

She rolled her eyes. "Fine. What's the plan?"

"Since you know where Dreykov is, you can access whatever computer he is using to find her location."

"What about Dreykov? He has to pay for what he did."

"And he will but not yet. Let's focus on finding your sister." Clint walked into the kitchen, opened a cabinet, and grabbed a gun. "Once we know where she is, we'll take care of Dreykov." He handed the gun to her.

She looked at it then at him before taking it. "Why are you willing to do this for someone you do not know?"

"Because I know what it's like to want to save your family."

"You have a sibling?"

Clint walked over to his gear. "I did."

 

One Hour Later...

 

The two followed a car that they suspected to belong to Dreykov. The car stopped in front of a five story building. Dreykov walked out of the building and got into the car. It started driving off. Once the car was far enough away, the two exited their vehicle.

They infiltrated the building. Natasha accessed the computer on the fifth floor. Lucky for her, there was no impossible password to decipher. Clint planted some bombs around the building. Two minutes later, she ran passed Clint with a small piece of paper and a vile with something red inside.

"What's in the vile", Clint asked when they got to the car.

"The only way to knock Yelena back into reality."

"What?"

"Yelena is one of the Black Widows that has been placed under some mind control. This should bring her out of it."

"Alright. Where are we going?"

"Not far. She is here in Budapest."

The two drove to the opposite side of Budapest. They arrived at the location that Natasha had written down. Clint stayed in the car while Natasha left to find Yelena.

Five minutes passed and Clint was still alone. He was thumping his thumbs against the wheel. The mood changed when he saw two women running toward the car. He recognized one as Natasha and the blonde woman he assumed to be Yelena.

The two women climbed into the car and Clint wasted no time. Both women yelling at him to drive faster. He could see the similarities. When he looked back, he noticed a small cut on Yelena's leg.

Clint drove back to the other side of the city. It became more difficult because there was a Hungarian Special Forces presence in the area. Their presence changed Clint's plan. Clint stopped a few blocks away from the five story building. He went to the roof of the building he was closest too.

Natasha and Yelena argued for a minute before Yelena got out of the car. She went to the same roof as Clint. Natasha drove to the building. When she arrived, she watched for the same car that she and Clint watched Dreykov get into before.

"We need confirmation Dreykov's in the building", Clint said over the radio.

"His car is pulling up now", Natasha replied. A little girl got out and ran inside. Natasha's heart ached because she only wanted to kill Dreykov but she understands collateral damage.

"Natasha, are we clear?"

"All clear."

 

BOOM

 

Ten Days Later...

 

Clint was flying the quinjet while the two Widows were in the back. Yelena fell asleep and Natasha found a blanket to put over her sister. The three of them survived a long shootout with Hungarian Special Forces that destroyed his apartment. Then they had to survive in the city for ten days until they could get to the quinjet.

She sat back and watched her sister sleep. After a minute or two, Natasha walked to the cockpit and sat in the co-pilot seat.

"Thank you", Natasha muttered.

Clint turned his head. "I didn't know you were capable of saying such things."

Natasha smirked. "It takes a lot to get me to say it."

Clint chuckled. "I understand that."

"I need you to promise me something."

"What is it?"

"You will not tell anyone who we are."

Clint smiled. "Don't worry, Natasha. I won't say a thing to SHIELD."

 

Four Hours Later...

 

Clint landed the jet in a open desert area. The landing was a bit rough causing both Natasha and Yelena to wake. The two got up while Clint did something in the cockpit. Once finished, he walked to the back to join them.

"Where are we", Yelena asked.

"Just outside St. Moritz, Switzerland."

"Why", Natasha asked.

"Because this is where I'm going to drop you off if you don't choose to come with me to Washington D.C."

"What", Natasha asked.

"I'm offering you both a choice. You can either stay here in Switzerland where you will meet with a friend of mine who has new identities for you and you both will be outstanding citizens."

"Or", Yelena asked.

"Or, come with me to SHIELD where your skills can be put to good use. I must warn you now that SHIELD could use you two the same way the Red Room did. The only difference being that you will be pointed at targets that cause problems. The choice is yours."

"And you have the authority to do this", Natasha asked.

"Definitely not but it would not be the first time I disobeyed orders." The two women looked at each other. They whispered to one another in Russian. They were not aware that Clint knew what they were saying. The two looked at Clint. "So? What will it be?"

 

* * * * * * * * * *

 

Natasha and Yelena smiled at the memories.

"Can you imagine what would have happened if we stayed in Switzerland", Yelena asked.

"Life would certainly be different", Natasha said with a small laugh. Yelena started laughing too.

Yelena stood up and walked to the desk. She looked at a photo of her, Clint, and Natalie that Natasha took not too long ago. "I'm happy where we ended up", Yelena said with a smile.

"Me too", Natasha said returning the smile.

Yelena picked the Ghost's mask. She looked at it closer after the lift reflected something. "What is this", she asked as she noticed something on the inside of it.

"What", Natasha asked as she stood.

"There's blood on the inside of the mask." She looked at her older sister. "I made him bleed."

"So?"

"Fitz and Jemma can analyze the blood and figure out what Valentina used to take control of Clint."

Natasha's eyes widened. "And they can use that to find a cure for him."

Yelena nodded. "Exactly."

"You go to the lab and I'll get those two brainiacs."

The two ran out of Clint's office in opposite directions. Yelena went to the lab. Natasha went back to the conference room.

 

In the Conference Room...

 

Everyone was reading through GHOST Protocol missions. The three SHIELD leaders plus May answering any questions they have.

"I'm gonna puke if I look through any more of these", Daisy said putting a file on the table.

"I am right there with you", Sam said.

"I still don't get why were not told about this sooner", Steve said. "Why didn't you tell us sooner?"

"It was not our secret to share, Rogers", Fury said.

"It was Barton's secret to share with all of you", Coulson said.

"Then why didn't he tell us", Steve asked.

"Would you have accepted him for it", Natasha asked. Everyone looked at her. "Answer the question, Steve. Would you have been able to accept it?" Everyone, including Steve, stayed silent. "That's what I thought. Clint didn't say anything because he did not want to deal with your questions or judgements."

"He tell you that", Rhodey asked.

"No, he didn't have to say it because I know what it's like. When Clint brought Yelena and I to SHIELD, we felt like everyone was against us, even them", she said as she pointed to Fury, Hill, Coulson, and May. "Clint protected us from the rumors and all the other crap that was circling around the Triskelion."

"How is Yelena", May asked.

"She's fine. By the way, Fitzsimmons, get to the lab. She has something to show you."

"Now", Fitz asked.

"No, only when you're ready to leave. Yes now", she yelled.

Almost everyone jumped at her sudden change in tone. Fitz and Jemma ran out of the conference room and to the elevator. They did not want to deal with an angry Natasha.

"We know about the Ghost, but how about those other guys with him", Tony asked.

"Poseidon's Blood agents", Daisy said.

Steve quirked his brow. "Clint told me some about them but not much."

"Poseidon's Blood is an organization led by Valentina Allegra De Fontaine. She is the woman who we spoke to on the Helicarrier. Barton has been fighting them since 2010", Coulson said.

"Wow", Tony muttered.

"Who's Valentina", Steve asked.

"A former SHIELD agent. She was a chief scientist involved with GHOST Protocol and Project SHADOW", Fury said.

"What's Project SHADOW", May asked.

Coulson and Hill grabbed out two files and opened them. The two agents slid them across the table to the others. "It was an attempt to recreate the Ghost", Coulson said.

"That's what the Taskmaster is", Daisy asked. Coulson nodded to her.

"Those agents that attacked us were wearing the Phase One armor", Mack said.

"What's Phase Two armor", Rhodey asked.

Tony took a look at the Phase Two diagram. "It looks like it's a kinetic field generated from the armor plate. Something like this can change the number of lives lost in our government agencies."

"And our Military", Rhodey said.

"Have they developed this yet", Tony asked.

"Not yet, but Clint is suspecting that they are close to perfecting it", Daisy said.

"How do you know", Hill asked.

"Being Clint's partner in the Blood investigation means I get to be there when he develops crazy theories."

Hill and Coulson looked at each other. "Makes sense", Hill said.

"How do we fight this", Steve asked. "These guys have nearly indestructible armor, laser gun rifles, advanced fighting suits, and Clint."

"If Yelena is right, the Ghost could be on our side again", Natasha said. "That will change the balance of power in the fight with them."

 

Later That Night...

 

Yelena walked through the door of the apartment. She was so stressed out from earlier. She told Jemma and Fitz her theory and they were both impressed. The instant she said it, they began working on it.

Due to the lack of it being fresh blood, Jemma said it would be difficult to discover whatever is in Clint's system. Yelena had no idea how to help them further and did not want to face the others. Lucky for her, May found her and told her to return home.

Yelena relieved her babysitter. Natalie was so happy to see her mother. The baby clutching onto Yelena's shirt tightly. Yelena peppered kisses all over Natalie's face. The baby giggling uncontrollably. The two played for the next thirty minutes before Yelena put Natalie in her crib.

She quietly closed the door to the nursery. When she walked back to the living room, she heard a soft knock on the door. Knowing the time, Yelena grabbed her gun and walked to the door. Yelena looked through the peep hole to see a man with red glasses and a white cane.

Yelena became skeptical. She hid the gun behind her back before opening the door. "Can I help you", she asked. She took notice of the bruises on his face.

The man smiled. "Hi, my name is Matthew Murdock. I'm a friend of Clint Barton."

"I'm sorry, he is not here." Yelena turned to close the door.

"I know that, Yelena. That's not why I am here." Yelena stopped. Her grip on the gun tightened. Matt raised his hands. "Please, no guns. I don't want to wake your daughter."

Yelena pointed her gun at him. "How do you know my name? And how do you know about my daughter?"

"Like I said, I'm a friend of Clint Barton. I can explain." That did not change anything for Yelena. "May I come in", he asked with a smile.

Chapter 27: The Devil and the Ghost

Notes:

There will be no chapter next week. I have a lot going on next week that will keep me from being able to write. I do promise though that the chapter after this one will be worth the wait.

"Why should I believe anything you say", Yelena asked. Her gun still firmly planted on the blind man in front of her.

"Was what I said not enough", Matt asked with a smile.

"Not for me."

Matt sighed. "I get you're having a hard time trusting people. If you let me come in, I can explain everything."

Yelena was still not convinced. The last couple of days have made her very paranoid. If it was not for Natalie, she would not be as skittish or careful as she is right now. The man would probably be dead already. Her curiosity beating her, Yelena carefully moved to the side and let him walk inside.

Yelena checked the hallway before closing the door. Her hand gripped the gun tighter than before but she let her guard lower just a little bit. She stared at Matt as he stood in the middle of the room.

"Do you want anything", Yelena asked. "A glass of water?"

"No, I'm okay."

Yelena walked to the kitchen and got a glass of water for herself. "Start talking."

Matt folded his cane and sat down on the couch. "Have you heard of Daredevil or the Devil of Hell's Kitchen?"

Yelena sat on the chair next to the couch. "The vigilante who took down Wilson Fisk?"

Matt smiled. "Yes, that's him."

"Okay. What about him?"

"Well, I am him."

Yelena snorted. "I really doubt that."

Matt laughed. "I thought you would say that. Clint said it is difficult to make you believe something."

"I'm sorry, it's just a blind man saying he is a vigilante does not sound believable."

"I know something like that does not sound realistic but it is true."

Yelena started thinking about what he said. She was about to say he is lying to her but then something clicked. Everything she has seen, heard, and experienced has taught her that nothing can be unrealistic. The proof is in Natalie alone. So, even a blind vigilante is not the most bizarre thing.

"How do you know Clint", Yelena asked.

 

* * * * * * * * * *

 

Clint hit the punching bag repeatedly. He had been in the training center for the last four hours trying to release some of his pent up anger. The Ghost has not been out in two months and the anger was trying to get out. So, he had to do it carefully.

There were other agents and cadets in the training center with Clint. The sounds that the punching bag made causing them to look in his direction. He was punching the bag without holding nothing back. If there was a person in the place of the bag, the person would be dead.

All of the agents and cadets stood at attention when Fury walked into the training center. Their eyes briefly glancing in Clint's direction when they heard him still hitting the bag. Clint did not even acknowledge Fury's presence.

The director walked over to Clint and stood behind him silently. A minute or two later, Clint stopped punching the bag. He took a drink from his water bottle before starting to take off his gloves. He did this without turning around.

"Do I have a new assignment, Sir", Clint asked.

"You do, but not one I can discuss here."

Clint turned his head to look at Fury. He nodded. Clint grabbed a towel and wiped his face of the sweat. The two walked out of the training center before speaking. "What is it?"

"Do you know John Ford?"

Clint thought for a second. "Isn't he the guy who agreed to testify against his partners in his operation?"

"That's him. He is currently in a safe house in New York under the protection of a six man team."

"Okay", Clint replied confused.

"Ford said that he is being followed by someone."

"Do we know who?"

"No. Rumlow and his team have not seen anyone around the safe house."

"Then how does he know he is being followed?"

"He claims things inside were moved."

Clint snorted. "What do you want from me?"

"I want you to watch over him."

"You want me to babysit?"

"No, I don't want you to babysit. I want the other guy to babysit", Fury said as they passed a couple of agents.

They stopped a few feet away from Clint's office. "Has this been approved?"

"No. This mission is off the books."

Clint nodded. "That's why you want the Ghost?" Fury nodded. "Understood, Sir", Clint said without missing a beat.

Clint walked into his office while Fury walked away. Clint grabbed a packed bag next to his desk and walked to the showers in the training center. Once he was showered, he put on civilian clothes. He had the bag packed with the Ghost suit.

Since the mission was in New York, Clint did not have to take the quinjet. He decided to drive his SUV. When he arrived, he went to the apartment that Fury told him about. Clint did not spend much time in it because he changed and let the Ghost take over.

 

Ten Minutes Later...

 

The Ghost stood on the roof of the building across from the safe house. He watched the SHIELD security team walk the perimeter. Then his eyes moved to the open window where he saw Ford. The Ghost narrowed his eyes.

He watched the safe house all that night. There was no sign of anyone but him watching the place.

The Ghost watched the safe house again the next night. No sign of anyone.

Again the next night. Like before, no sign of anyone.

It was like that for a week. He watched the safe house all night but would not see anyone. He began to think that he was missing something so he started watching the safe house during the day. That proved useless too.

Fury ordered him to watch Ford for one more night then return to D.C.

That is what he did. The Ghost watched the security team walk the perimeter. He watched Ford talk with a "lawyer" for SHIELD. Then he remembered that Ford is set to testify tomorrow. An hour or two passed and the lights of the house turned off. He crouched down and watched the security team. Then something changed.

The Ghost stood up. He turned his head slightly. "Not many people can sneak up on me", the Ghost said.

"Why are you watching John Ford?"

The Ghost turned around fully. "That is none of your concern."

"The man across from the Ghost clenched his fists. "What do you want with him?"

The Ghost quirked his brow. It was hard to tell because of the mask. The man across from him was not what he was expecting. The was dressed in a black jacket, sweat pants, gloves, and a mask covering his eyes.

"Don't be concerned with Ford right now", the Ghost said. "You are going to regret making yourself known to me."

"You're with them aren't you?"

"My reply won't matter. You will be dead in five minutes."

The Ghost started walking toward the man. The man did the same. The instant they made contact with each other, a fight ensued. The man threw the first punch that the Ghost blocked. The Ghost punched the man in the chest as a response.

The man stumbled but stayed alert. He quickly threw a punch that the Ghost dodged but kicked the Ghost in the chest. The Ghost threw another punch that the man dodged and he punched the Ghost in the same spot he kicked.

The Ghost stumbled back a few feet. He clenched his fists. He ran at the man and threw a few punches to the man's head. The man fell back disoriented. He tried to push himself up but the Ghost kicked him in the back. The man groaned as he hit the ground.

The Ghost stood over the injured man who tried to push himself up. The Ghost was about to kick him again but the man caught his leg. The man spun himself around and kicked the Ghost's other leg out from under him as a result. They both quickly got up but the man was faster. He kicked the Ghost in the face. The Ghost fell back on the ground.

The Ghost distracted by the kick allowed the man to jump back and give himself a chance to breathe. The Ghost groaned as he got back up. His anger now at the surface. He ran at his opponent. The man threw a punch but the Ghost dodged the hit. He kicked the man in the leg.

The man dropped to his knees and the Ghost brought his knee to hit the man's face. He did that two more times. The man fell to the ground; his ears ringing loudly. The Ghost clutched the man's shirt and pulled him up only to punch him.

When the man hit the ground again, the Ghost took a few steps back. After a few seconds, the man pushed himself up. The Ghost was impressed with the man's determination. The man stood up and faced the Ghost.

The man screamed and ran at him. The Ghost was about to react but he backed himself against a glass skylight. The man tackled the Ghost and they broke through the skylight. They fell fifteen feet before hitting a table beneath the window.

Both men rolled off the table. The Ghost groaned as he sat up. He felt something wrong on the inside of his mask. He removed the hood and mask. He brought his hand to his nose then looked at his finger tip covered in red liquid.

"It can't be", he whispered.

The man groaned too as he sat up. The ringing in his ears starting to stop but still present. He removed the mask and shook his head. He could hear the erratic heartbeat of his enemy.

"Very few people can make me bleed", the Ghost said.

"What?"

"You've done something that no one else can do", the Ghost said. "You made me bleed."

"Seriously? No one has made you bleed before?"

The Ghost stood up. "The last person that did get lucky paid with her life."

The man stood up too. He looked in the direction of the Ghost. "You're a really good fighter. I've never fought anyone like you before."

"I can say the same", the Ghost said as he stared at the man. He was very shocked to discover the man who made him bleed was blind. "You're blind?"

"Yes, I am."

The Ghost nodded. 'Not the weirdest thing', he thought. "Why are you stalking Ford?"

"I'm not stalking him. I'm trying to stop him."

"What do you mean?"

"He's lying to you and whatever organization you work with."

"How do you know that?"

"I've been following him for weeks. When I finally got my opportunity, I snuck into the safe house."

"Okay. How did you know he was lying?"

"Conversations he's had on the phone. He also has papers."

"How do you that the papers are..."

"It's a long explanation. Anyway, he is planning on screwing over your entire organization."

"How did you find out about him?"

"My client was a friend of his."

"Your client?"

"I'm a lawyer."

"You're a lawyer? So, the whole vigilante thing is a side job?"

He smiled. "Not really. This job and the lawyer job are kind of interconnected."

The Ghost nodded. "Let's say I believe you. What was your plan?"

"I never thought that far ahead. I have to gather more evidence."

The Ghost had no idea if he could believe the blind man in front of him. If there was any merit to what he is saying, the proof is in the safe house.

"What's your name", the Ghost asked.

"Why should I tell you? You tried to kill me five minutes ago."

"I was doing my job. And besides, we've been talking for two minutes."

The man looked down, unsure of what to do. "My name is Matt."

"Matt what?"

Matt smiled. "I'm not that stupid."

The Ghost smiled back. "Fair enough. My name is Clint."

Before they could get any further in their conversation, the two heard a door open followed by boots running. Clint instantly knew it was Rumlow and the security team. He and Matt ran in the opposite direction of the team.

Clint and Matt got to Matt's apartment. When they arrived, Clint looked around at the blind lawyer's possessions. Then he saw the blinding build board across the street. A window that had no covering and a large neon build board.

"Did you get this place at a discount", Clint asked.

Matt chuckled. "I did. That sign really destroyed the value of this place so it was perfect for me."

Clint snorted. "Not the worst way to get an apartment for cheap."

"Sounds like there is a story behind that."

"I got my apartment in D.C for half what it should have been worth."

"How?"

"Someone died in it."

Matt froze in place and quirked his brow. He thought Clint was joking but heard no changes in Clint's heartbeat or respiration. "Who do you work for", Matt asked as an attempt to forget what Clint said.

"SHIELD. The Strategic Homeland Intervention Enforcement and Logistics Division."

"I've never hear of that."

"Of course not. We like to stay in the shadows."

Matt nodded. "Ford wants to destroy SHIELD."

"Any chance you know how?"

Matt shook his head. "No. Like I said, he has plans to screw SHIELD. Some of the phone calls I heard were with another man but I don't know his name. They never got into specifics."

"Ford still has a lot of contacts in his old organization."

"What is SHIELD doing with him anyway?"

"He was set to testify against his former partners in this organization. We captured him and flipped him."

"Okay, what's the plan? I mean, it sounds like you believe me."

Clint sighed. "I do believe you."

"What's the plan?"

"I don't know yet. If Ford is calling his contacts and planning on screwing SHIELD, the question is why. What will he gain?"

"There were papers on the table when I snuck into the safe house. Maybe those say something."

"Not likely. His lawyer is the only person to visit him and he never took anything with him."

"His lawyer? What do you know about him?"

"Not much other than he's a SHIELD lawyer."

"Could the lawyer be the man on the inside? I don't want to insinuate anything on a man I don't know but I thought I would ask."

Clint scratched his chin. "I'm not saying it's impossible but how could Ford turn him?"

"My client, the one who knows Ford, said that Ford is loaded. He has dozens of off shore accounts. He has so much money that he can challenge Tony Stark."

Clint nodded. "Ford paid him off", he said while thinking. "Fury won't be happy."

"Should we talk to the lawyer", Matt asked.

Clint clenched his fists. "No. We're gonna talk to Ford."

"What about the man on the other side of the phone calls?"

"I'll worry about him and the lawyer later. Let's talk with Ford."

"What about his SHIELD security team?"

"I will take care of them. You find a way inside the house. Our commotion on the roof must have made them more alert."

Matt nodded. "Got it."

The two went back to the safe house. The roof of the building where they fought was covered in crime scene tape. Police officers and detectives walking around the building. Matt worked to find a way inside the safe house while Clint took out the security detail.

Clint did not want to hurt the agents because they're SHIELD. Unfortunately for them, the Ghost did not see any other choice but to take them down. If he were being honest though, he did not feel bad for hurting them by knocking them out.

The Ghost joined Matt inside the house when he was done. They used a window on the second floor to enter. Lucky for them, all the security team plus Rumlow were outside. The two snuck downstairs and stopped when they heard talking.

Ford was talking to someone on the phone. As soon as he hung up, the lights went out. He looked around and started yelling for someone. When the lights came on, he saw a figure in a black jacket, sweat pants, gloves, and mask standing in front of him.

"You", Ford said. "You're the man who's been following me."

"He's the only one", another voice said.

Ford turned around to look at a man dressed in black and gold. "Who are you?"

"I go by many names but I've always been partial to the Ghost."

Ford looked at the Ghost then at his stalker. He took a few steps back so he could have them both in his sight. Both men watched Ford carefully. Ford quickly reached for a gun he hid behind a couch pillow.

Matt launched himself at Ford. The blind vigilante knocked the gun out of Ford's hand before he could fire. Matt kicked the man in his chest. Ford fell back on the ground. He tried to reach for anything to use as a weapon but Matt stepped on his arm. Ford screamed in pain.

The Ghost walked over to the table and looked through the papers. Some of them looked official but others were suspicious. He picked one up and read it. His anger rising to the surface. He clenched his fist and crumpled the paper.

"Get him up", he gritted through his teeth.

Matt took his foot of Ford's arm. He grabbed Ford's arms and lifted him up to his knees. Matt got behind Ford and held him by an arm and his neck.

The Ghost walked over to Ford. "You think you can screw over SHIELD and they won't find out?"

Ford smiled. "You're with SHIELD?"

The Ghost shook his head. "I'm the one they call when they can't get involved."

"What does that mean?"

The Ghost, with such incredible speed, removed the sword from the sheath and cut Ford's head off clean.

Matt gasped and stepped back. "What did you do", Matt asked in complete shock.

The Ghost looked at his hand that was shaking. "My job. I did my job."

A while later, the two returned to Matt's apartment. Matt was still stunned by what Clint did but he did not say anything. Clint set his sword and mask on the kitchen counter before sitting down on the couch.

"You have something to say", Clint asked.

"No."

Clint knew Matt was lying to him. "I did that because it was my job. I can't leave witnesses to what I do. It's a curse that follows me in this job."

Matt sighed. "Well, I didn't see anything so what can I prove."

Clint looked at Matt. "Is that meant to be funny?"

Matt smirked. "Kinda." He sat next to Clint on the couch and handed Clint a beer. "I'm a lawyer who tells people to trust the system. And when the system fails, I do this. I take justice into my own hands." Clint looked at him. "You do the same thing, Clint. You take justice into your own hands when the system fails."

Clint nodded.

The two talked for a while longer while drinking some beers Matt had in the fridge. They both swapped stories. They did not think that a friendship would actually develop from almost killing each other.

"I should leave. My boss won't be happy with what I did."

Matt laughed. "Alright. It's nice to meet you, Clint."

Clint rose from the couch and put the empty bottle on the table. "Barton. My name is Clint Barton."

Matt rose from the couch too and shook Clint's hand. "It's nice to meet you, Clint Barton. My name is Matt Murdock."

Clint walked over to the kitchen counter and grabbed the mask and sword he placed there. "I hope to see you again, devil."

"Devil?"

Clint smiled. "You fight like a devil. You should consider adopting it as your name if you're going to keep going after dangerous people."

"I will keep that in mind."

"One more thing, be careful. Taking justice into your own hands without the backing of law enforcement or the government can have repercussions you may not be able to fight."

"I know that."

"I'll see what I can do about protecting you from the government. You'll need the help."

Matt nodded. "Thank you, Clint."

Clint nodded and left out the fire escape. "I'll stay in contact with you, Murdock."

 

The Next Morning...

 

Clint set his stuff down in his office. His head banging because he was still dealing with a hangover. And everything else he did after. When he sat down at his desk, a part of him did not want to deal with any work.

"What the hell did you do", Fury asked as he walked into Clint's office and shut the door.

"What are talking about", Clint asked as he rubbed his temples.

"This", Fury replied as he slammed a police report down on the desk.

Clint took the report and read it. A man was found with a knife in his chest and was reportedly tortured before being killed. The house was torn apart. "Who is this?"

"You know damn well who it is", Fury said. "You're the one who killed him. Rumlow also said that someone knocked out him and his team and killed John Ford. Whoever did it cut his head clean off."

"Okay. That's unfortunate."

"Spare me the shit, Barton. Tell me what you did."

Clint looked up at Fury. "I didn't do anything, remember? You did not want me to be involved."

"So it was the Ghost."

"The Ghost found evidence that Ford was planning on betraying SHIELD. He took matters into his own hands. He also found proof that lawyer with a knife in his chest was involved."

Fury eased off a little bit. If there is one thing he knows is always true, it is that the Ghost, and Clint, do not act without reason. "Once the Counsel finds out about this, you and I are done."

"They won't find out. Ford's organization is known for decapitating traitors. Robberies that leave dead victims are common in the area where the lawyer lives."

"Anyone else involved? Particularly the man that was probably following Ford?"

"Nope. You should know the Ghost works alone."

Fury gave him a small smirk. He did not reply. Fury took the police report and walked out of Clint's office.

 

* * * * * * * * * *

 

"Clint has been helping me ever since", Matt said.

Yelena sat there stunned. "Wow. I didn't know Clint did that."

"He said he would keep my identity a secret."

Yelena smiled. "He does keep his word."

"Yes, he does."

Yelena stood from the chair and walked over to a photo of her and Clint. She had no idea that she would be this hurt, scared, and afraid all at once. It has only been one day but her heart was saddened at the thought of Clint.

"It's okay to miss him", Matt said.

Yelena turned to look at Matt. "What?"

"It's okay to miss Clint. Don't feel bad about having emotions."

Yelena nodded. "I know." She looked back at the photo and stared at it. She and Clint look so happy in it. She can say it is a genuine smile. "What happened last night?"

"The Ghost with a team of tactical guys attacked a lab and storage facility in Hell's Kitchen."

"What was inside the building?"

"I'm not entirely sure. All I can say is that the lab and storage facility belonged to the Department of Damage Control."

"That's not good", Yelena said quietly. Her mind going to the Phase Two armor. Based on what she knew, Phase Two is what Poseidon's Blood is currently trying to develop. "Thank you for telling me."

"Do you have any other questions?"

"He really talks about me and Natalie?"

Matt smiled and nodded. "Yeah. I can hear so much pride in his voice when he talks about the two of you."

Yelena smiled. "Really?"

"Yes. His heart is so pure when he talks about you."

"What do you mean?"

"Talking about you and Natalie is the only time I hear his heart beating at a normal rhythm. His respiration is normal too. When he talks about work or something else not you two, it's different. It's almost erratic."

Yelena knows she had some sort of power over Clint's emotions and heart. Both Natasha and Clint have told her that. Clint has also told her she is a much needed calm in his life.

When Matt left the apartment shortly after, Yelena sat on the couch. Her body was drained of its energy and her brain was exhausted. She learned so much about one of the few people in the world she actually loves. And trusts.

Yelena got up from the couch and walked to the bedroom. She stripped out of her clothes and put on one of Clint's t-shirts. His scent overtaking her. She climbed into the bed. Sleep not coming easy because her thoughts were focusing on tomorrow.

She kept creating scenarios of what tomorrow will hold. Yelena starred at the ceiling as she let these thoughts run rampant. She extended her arm to the other side of the bed. She turned her head to not see anything there but an empty spot.

The rainstorm outside creating a soothing white noise. The noise stopping her thoughts. She did not know how long she had been staring at the empty side of the bed before finally falling asleep.

Chapter 28: Blood of the Ghost

Notes:

Sorry this chapter is later than expected. It took me longer to write than I thought and I kept getting distracted with other things.

Yelena searched through every database she could for any information on the lab that Matt said was attacked. The incident was on the news but not much was said. The site was also quickly contained by Damage Control.

Not finding many answers, she moved on to the next question she had. Why did SHIELD not respond to the incident? That question was answered when she overheard an argument between Fury and the person in charge of Damage Control. The latter saying it is their jurisdiction because it was their lab that was attacked.

Unsurprisingly, Fury showed no reaction.

Once the Damage Control lab became a dead end, Yelena went to the lab in the Triskelion. Fitz and Jemma were still analyzing the blood from the Ghost's mask. They told her it could take time to determine anything because of the blood being a small and dried sample.

Yelena walked out of the lab and went to the conference room. She was not expecting to see Natasha already sitting in a chair. She sat in the chair next to her sister.

"Sleep well", Natasha asked.

"No. I kept having nightmares."

Natasha grabbed Yelena's hand. "We're going to get him back."

"Yeah, hopefully."

Natasha quirked her brow. "I'm sorry, are you giving up? You don't like to give up easily."

Yelena sighed. "Clint was right to be afraid of the Ghost being free. He is a destroyer who does not like to be chained down."

Natasha nodded. "I know that."

"Clint managed to chain him up when he recruited us. SHIELD is afraid of him. You and I both know what SHIELD does to people who they cannot control."

"You think SHIELD will kill him?"

"I know they will. The Ghost proved that no one can stop him, not even Captain America. Without someone who can fight him, SHIELD will have no choice." Yelena looked down.

"Hey", Natasha said as she cupped Yelena's cheek with her other hand to make her look up. "We will not let that happen. I won't let that happen", she said softly.

Yelena slowly nodded.

A knock on the door to the conference room stopped their talk. They looked at the door to see Hill. "Sorry to interrupt."

"What is it, Hill", Natasha asked.

The SHIELD agent took a deep breath. "The Security Council is in Fury's office."

"That can't be good", Natasha said.

"It's not. They're angry and wanting answers."

Natasha and Yelena stood up. They followed Hill to the elevators. When they got to the top floor, they walked to Fury's office. Voices arguing instantly filled their ears. The three women walked into his office to see Fury arguing with the Council members.

Coulson was also in the room with his arms crossed. He was slightly enjoying the argument between his superiors. Steve was sitting in the chair at the conference table. He was watching and also enjoying the argument like Coulson.

Yelena and Natasha walked over to Steve but neither sat down. Hill joined Coulson. The two agents whispered to each other before focusing on their superiors.

Yelena watched as Daisy, Mack, May, Rhodey, and Sam entered the room. They all took a seat at the table. Fury glanced in their direction before looking back at Councilwoman Hawley.

After a minute or two, the arguing stopped. Fury walked over to Coulson and Hill while the Council talked among themselves. When they broke apart, Hawley stepped toward Fury.

"Director, it is in this nation's best interest and the interest and well being of all other world nations that you activate the Delta 3 chip", Councilwoman Hawley said.

Fury, still facing Coulson and Hill, slowly turned around; his hands on his hips. "You want me to what?"

"I want you to activate the D3 chip."

"I will do no such thing", Fury said. "I will not do that until every other option has been exhausted."

"Was what happened yesterday not enough for you", Councilman Chen asked.

Fury scowled at him. "With all due respect Councilman, you do not know as much as you think."

"What does that mean?"

Steve stood up. "Before this conversation goes any further, tell us what the D3 chip is."

Fury sighed before turning around to face everyone. "The Delta 3 chip is a chip implanted in the back of Barton's neck. It was put there when he first got injured on a mission."

"What does it do", Sam asked.

"It's a kill chip. Once activated, it sends an electrical signal through the spine and to the heart."

"Oh my god", Yelena muttered.

"What the hell is that thing for", Natasha asked.

"It was if we ever lost control of the Ghost. In case the Ghost ever went rogue, I could activate the chip and kill him."

Everyone became mortified. Their faces all the same, horror. Yelena put a hand on her belly as id she was about to puke.

Daisy looked at Coulson. Horror still on her face. "Did you know?"

Coulson shook his head. He looked at his boss. "Does Barton know he has that thing?"

"He found out about it but my plan was never to originally tell him."

"How did he find out", Rhodey asked.

"I told him about the one in his neck when he found out I was going to have others implanted with one. He kept them from being implanted."

"Who was going to be implanted", Steve asked.

Fury remained silent. He only stared right into the eyes of two.

"Us", Natasha said. Everyone looked at her and Yelena. Natasha glared at Fury. "You were going to implant us weren't you?"

"Barton disobeyed orders when he was supposed to kill you. He brought the two of you to the Triskelion without informing me. We knew nothing about either of you other than you two being two of the most dangerous assassins in the world. Yes, I was going to have the two of you implanted with D3 chips."

Yelena slumped down in the chair she was standing behind. Natasha put a hand on her shoulder.

"Clint finds out about what you want to do forcing you tell him about his", Natasha said.

Fury nodded. "He's been protecting you two since the very beginning."

"Can we get back to what we were discussing", Councilman Chen asked.

Fury turned around to face the Security Council members. "I will not activate the kill chip until I know for certain that our new plan will not work."

"What new plan", Councilwoman Hawley asked.

"Yesterday, during the attack on the Helicarrier, Agent Belova managed to make the Ghost bleed. A feat I thought long impossible. Two of our trusted scientists are analyzing the blood for any abnormalities."

"Is there something you're hoping they find?"

"The cause as to why one of my most trusted agents is trying to kill us. Like I said before, l won't activate the chip until I know there is no other choice."

"But that option is on the table", May asked.

Fury nodded.

"We can't kill Clint", Yelena spoke up.

"If Fitz and Simmons can't find what Valentina used on Clint then we may not have a choice", Coulson said looking at Yelena.

"How exactly do you plan on doing that", Natasha asked. All eyes were on her again. She chuckled, "I mean let's face it, Clint kicked our asses yesterday. Now we are talking about trying to kill a man with reinforced armor pads, a kevlar suit, and a vibranium sword."

"Vibranium sword", Steve asked.

Natasha nodded. "How do you think he cut through Tony's suit like paper?"

"Everything Agent Romanov said is proof that you must activate the chip, Director Fury", Councilman Chen said. "Killing Agent Barton may not be a wanted method but it's the only option left that will save the most lives."

Fury glared at the Councilman. "You think his death will save the most lives?" Fury walked over to his desk, picked up the two stacked boxes, and walked to the conference table. "What do you think is in these boxes?"

"House of horrors", Rhodey said jokingly. Fury glared at him. Rhodey cleared his throat.

"To most this looks like Barton slaughtering hundreds. The truth is that this is him saving thousands of lives. The Ghost is a trained killer but he is also responsible for saving many. Not to mention, Barton has his own record of saving lives separate from the Ghost. Believe me, killing Clint Barton will not bring the outcome you desire."

"Then what do you recommend, Director", a third councilman asked.

"For the Council to step back and let SHIELD handle this."

"Fine", Councilwoman Hawley said very annoyed. "Understand though that you are not the only organization hunting Valentina and the Ghost. Ever since they attacked Secretary Ross, they have been on every radar."

Fury gave her a small nod.

Coulson's phone buzzed to life in his pocket. He grabbed it out and read the message. "Belova, Romanov, come with me."

Yelena and Natasha followed Coulson out of Fury's office. Daisy got up and followed them. She may not have been asked to join but Clint is her friend too. She did not want to be in the dark about anything related to him. At least, she hopes it is related to him.

The four of them walked into the lab. Jemma and Fitz were surprisingly the only people in the lab. The four gathered at the table where the scientists were working. Coulson excused himself as soon as they got to the table. They all watched him exit the lab.

"Coulson said you found something", Yelena said.

"We discovered a foreign substance in Clint's blood just as you theorized", Jemma said.

"Do you know what it is", Daisy asked.

"We don't know what it is but we do know what it does", Fitz said.

"Okay. What does it do", Natasha asked.

Jemma and Fitz looked at each other. "It's mind control", Fitz said.

"We already knew that much", Yelena said.

"Due to the lack of the availability of the sample, we cannot be definitive on the components. We do know that picrotoxin was found in his blood."

"What's picrotoxin", Daisy asked.

"A mind numbing drug", Yelena said. The group looked at her surprised.

"How do you know that", Jemma asked.

"It was a component of the agent that the Red Room used on me." She looked at Natasha. "Melina told me how she made it."

"Could you identify anything else", Natasha asked when she looked at the two scientists.

"No", Fitz said.

Natasha looked at Yelena again. "Could it be what Dreykov used to control you?"

"Could be. The picrotoxin was used to numb the prefrontal cortex of the brain. I had no choice but to follow orders to the letter."

"What", Daisy asked.

"The prefrontal cortex is the part of the brain that controls judgement, complex thought, and decision making", Jemma whispered.

Daisy nodded.

"The mind control agent was specified to the female gene. That's the only problem", Yelena said.

"It doesn't mean it can't be altered", Natasha said. "Can we get a chemical vile from Melina?"

"How much time would that take? We don't know when we will have to fight Clint again."

Natasha sighed. She looked at Jemma. "Do you have any ideas?"

"We do have one idea." Jemma looked at Fitz. He grabbed a syringe with a clear liquid inside. "Fitz and I developed this temporary picrotoxin blocking agent."

"It should hopefully buy you enough time to talk to Clint", Fitz said.

"Do you know how much time", Natasha asked.

"We honestly don't even know if it will work."

"Fitz", Jemma hissed.

"What? I'm being honest. If it does work then at least we can get an actual blood sample."

Daisy and Yelena's phones started beeping. They grabbed out their phones. "A mission alert", Daisy said.

"What is it", Natasha asked.

"Clint was seen on a security camera video in New York", Yelena said.

"We have to go", Daisy said.

"Take this", Jemma said as she handed Yelena the syringe.

Yelena, Natasha, and Daisy left the lab. They walked into Fury's office to see everyone staring at the large screens on the wall. They saw what everyone was looking at which is a screenshot of Clint looking right at the camera.

"Where is that", Natasha asked.

"The Financial District in Manhattan", Fury said.

"We know where he is, now let's get him", Mack said.

"Not a good idea to just rush in", Yelena said. "We don't know exactly where he is."

"Yelena's right. Clint looked right at the camera which means he wanted to be seen", Natasha said.

"He wants to draw us out", Daisy added.

"Do you know where he is", Mack asked.

"Once Barton was caught on camera, I used other cameras in the area to follow him", Hill said. "The cameras had him for three blocks but I lost him. I narrowed it down to three locations. A rundown office building, a large warehouse, or a greenhouse."

"What's the plan", Steve asked.

"We need to put teams together", Natasha said. "Blood agents are undoubtedly going to be with him."

"I can get Alpha, Bravo, and Charlie Team ready to deploy", Daisy said.

Fury nodded to her.

"Is that it", Councilman Chen asked. "You're only going to have the three teams and all of you?"

"It won't be all of us", Rhodey said. "My suit is too damaged."

"So is mine", Sam said. "Those damn Blood agents shot out an engine."

"Our teams are trained to fight Blood agents. Clint specifically trained them to fight those guys", Daisy said.

Steve looked around. "Where's Coulson?"

"Finishing another task I asked of him. He will join you on the landing pad when he is done."

Everyone except Fury, Hill, May, and the Council left Fury's office. Sam and Rhodey walked with the group to help them get ready. Once they were ready, they went to their separate landing pads to be met by their teams. Yelena and Daisy with Alpha Team, Steve and Coulson with Bravo Team, and Natasha and Mack with Charlie Team.

Each team went to where Fury ordered them. Steve and Coulson went to the office building. Natasha and Mack went to the large greenhouse. Yelena and Daisy went to the large, multistory warehouse. No one knew what to expect.

"Why is there a green house in the Financial District", Natasha asked as she, Mack, and Charlie Team got to the main entrance.

Mack and Natasha got to either side of the door. "Who knows; it's New York."

The two of them plus Charlie Team entered the building. Natasha sent three members of Charlie Team to the back entrance to secure it. They made their way through the greenhouse, clearing the different rooms.

"All clear", Charlie One said. "There's nothing here."

Natasha sighed. "There's no one here, Fury."

Fury sighed. He and the others in his office were watching it on the screens. The cameras on the tactical agents helmets streaming the footage to his office.

"Bravo Team", Fury said, "Status?"

"Entering now", Steve whispered.

Steve with four Bravo agents entered the building by the front entrance. Coulson, followed by the remaining six Bravo agents, went through the back entrance. Upon entering, both teams were met with laser gun fire from Poseidon's Blood agents.

Both teams took cover behind any object they could find. They all returned fire. Steve engaged the agents head on, knocking them out.

"We've encountered a lot of resistance, Sir", Bravo One said.

"Romanov, Mackenzie, back up Bravo Team", Fury said.

"On our way", Mack said.

Charlie Team quickly left the greenhouse and got into their quinjet.

"Coulson, any sign of the Ghost", Fury asked.

"No", Coulson yelled as he hid behind a column. "This is the kind of fight he enjoys. If he is not here then where is he?"

"Don't worry about him. If he is not there than he is not your problem."

"But Agent Coulson raises a good question", Councilwoman Hawley said. Fury looked at her. "Where is the Ghost?"

Fury looked at Hill. "Show me Alpha footage."

Hill put the Alpha Team's video on the screens. Everyone watched Alpha Team cautiously approach the warehouse. Yelena and Daisy at the front of the group leading them inside. Daisy wasted no time and blasted the door open.

Once all of Alpha Team was inside, Poseidon's Blood agents ambushed them. The team hid behind crates. Unfortunately for them, the crates were made of wood making them less effective against the laser guns. Alpha Team returned fire. Daisy and Yelena used their other skills to take down the agents.

The two women proved their effectiveness but more and more agents kept appearing causing the SHIELD team to become overwhelmed.

"How many of them are there", Daisy yelled as she and Yelena took cover behind a crate. "And where are they coming from?"

"From inside the warehouse", Fury said. "Our satellites have finally given us a good image. Thermal imaging says that there a dozen or so more agents in the building heading to your position."

"There's also a single agent on the west side of the second floor", Rhodey said.

The screens showing the thermal imagery suddenly went static. "Hill, what happened", May asked.

"I don't know. We've lost connection with the satellite."

"And what of Alpha Team", Councilwoman Hawley asked.

"We've lost communication with them too", Hill said.

"How", Fury asked.

"I don't know, Nick."

"Well get them back", he said as he pointed at the screen. Hill nodded. "Coulson, what's the situation?"

Coulson punched the agent across the face knocking him out. He clutched his hand after hitting the agent's armor. "We can handle it. Reroute Romanov and Mackenzie."

"Do it", Fury said to Hill. She nodded.

 

In the Warehouse...

 

"Did Rhodes say there was someone on the second floor", Yelena asked.

"I think he did", Daisy replied. "Could it be Clint?"

"We have to find out", Yelena said.

Daisy watched Alpha Team as they fired back at the agents. "Alpha One", Daisy yelled.

Alpha One ran over to the women. "Ma'am?"

"Can you and the others hold them until Agent Mackenzie and Romanov arrive", Daisy asked.

"Yes, Ma'am. We'll be fine."

That was all Yelena had to hear before taking off toward the stairs. Daisy yelled after her before turning her head to look at Alpha One. The leader of Alpha Team only smirked before continuing to shoot at the agents. Daisy ran after Yelena.

Daisy blasted a few of the agents that ran after her. She caught up with Yelena on the second floor. The two grabbed out their icers and carefully walked West. There were maybe five rooms, all the same. Empty spaces with windows and square columns.

"Why do I feel like we are in a horror movie", Daisy asked.

"We are", Yelena replied. Daisy looked at her. "The Ghost is a predator and we are his prey."

Daisy gulped. "Good to know."

The two continued to walk through the second floor. They walked into the West facing room and stopped when they were in the middle of it. Suddenly, something knocked the icer out of Daisy's hand. They both looked over at the icer and saw a throwing star sticking out of it.

Then something knocked Yelena's icer out of her hand. They saw a throwing star sticking out of her icer just like Daisy's. The two looked at each other before looking out at the empty room. They saw nothing but the windows and columns.

Daisy clenched and raised her fists. Yelena grabbed out her two replacement batons courtesy of Stark. Her grip on the weapons tightened when she heard the sound of footsteps and knew they were not hers or Daisy's.

Daisy and Yelena swiveled their heads in every direction to try to pinpoint the Ghost. The adrenaline inside them rising with every footstep. Each one getting closer and closer to them.

"You should have stayed away", the Ghost said. His voice echoed through the empty room. "And now you will lose your lives."

"What are our chances against him", Daisy whispered.

"Not good", Yelena whispered back. "Our chances are better with the syringe though."

"Yeah, we just have to get close enough to him."

"Not if I kill you first", the Ghost said.

Daisy huffed out a breath. "How does he do that?"

"Come out, Ghost", Yelena yelled.

The Ghost walked out from behind a column on the other side of the room. The two SHIELD agents turned a few degrees to face him. Both women were still slightly shocked to see Clint's face.

Before another word could be said, the Ghost ran at them. He pulled his sword out of the sheath. He swung it at Yelena. She blocked the swing with her batons. Daisy threw a punch but the Ghost caught her fist.

The Ghost kicked Daisy back. She stumbled back but kept herself on her feet. Yelena looked at her friend. The Ghost used the distraction. He used his free hand to grab Yelena's arm closest to his hand. He twisted her arm to the side.

Yelena felt a jolt of pain in her arm. She turned her head to look at the Ghost. He pushed her back but kept hold of her arm. He brought his leg up to her chest. Yelena bent over and grunted in pain. The Ghost's hold on her arm tightening so she can't go anywhere.

He kicked her again. And again. He kicked her a fourth time before letting go of her arm. She stumbled back and she hit a column. She slid down the column until she hit the floor.

Daisy ran at the Ghost. She took hold of both of his arms. He swiftly broke free of her hold. Daisy threw a punch but he ducked under her fist. He quickly swept her legs out from under her. Daisy hit the floor and moaned.

The Ghost laughed. "You're still weak from our last fight", he said looking at the two.

"You haven't won yet", Yelena said.

Yelena got onto her feet. She tightened her grip on her batons. She ran at him. The Ghost swung at her but she blocked the hit. She pushed herself back and threw her own attack. He blocked each attack with his sword.

Daisy managed to roll herself over. She pushed herself up to her knees. Hearing a commotion, she looked up and saw Yelena and the Ghost fighting. She was impressed with how well Yelena was doing. The blonde agent was dodging or blocking the Ghost's attacks.

The Ghost was keeping up with Yelena but she kept changing her fighting style every few seconds. It began throwing him off. Then Yelena made a mistake. The Ghost took notice of this change and knocked the batons out of her hands. He wrapped an arm around her and threw her against a column. She fell to the ground, blood trickling out of her nose.

Daisy put out her hand and blasted the sword out of the Ghost's hand. The Ghost looked at her in her weak state. He smirked. Daisy knew what that meant. She was about to quake again but the Ghost kicked her in the chest. Daisy fell flat on the ground.

The Ghost walked over to his sword. He picked it up and turned to the two women on the floor. "Now, you both have to die."

The Ghost took a few steps forward. Suddenly something flew through the window. The Ghost moved out of the way just in time because the object stuck itself into the column. The Ghost looked at it, a red billy club, then his eyes widened.

He looked at the window right when a red figure broke through the window. The Ghost took a few steps back with his hand covering his eyes. Doing that prevented him from seeing the second billy club hit him in the arm causing him to drop the sword.

The Devil ran at him and kicked him in the chest. When the Ghost stumbled back, the Devil flipped and kicked him across the face. The Ghost fell to the ground.

The Devil turned around and ran to the two women. Yelena was already conscious and sitting up but Daisy was unconscious. He crouched down and shook her. The inhuman stirred. He helped her sit up.

"Are you alright", he asked.

"Yeah", Daisy managed to say.

The Devil turned in the direction of the Ghost who was already up and staring at him. Both men clenched their fists. The Devil ran at him. The two engaged in a fight. Their speed and skills matching one another to the exact.

"Who is that", Daisy asked. She managed to get herself to sit up against the wall next to Yelena.

"A friend of Clint's", Yelena replied.

"Are you sure they're friends", Daisy asked as she watched the two fight.

The Ghost blocked and dodged each of the Devil's attacks. He threw punches when he saw his openings. The Devil doing the same as his opponent. The Devil was more cautious though because he knows the Ghost would not hold back.

The Devil was able to dodge and block the Ghost's attacks. That was until the Ghost backed him against a column. The Ghost grabbed the Devil's head and slammed it against the column repeatedly. When he knew the Devil was disorientated, the Ghost threw him to the ground.

The Devil ripped off hos cowl and shook his head. The loud ringing in his ears keeping him from being able to focus. Yelena and Daisy got over to him and helped him sit up.

"Matt, are you okay", Yelena asked.

The ringing began to subside but it was still present. "Yeah, I'm fine."

"Are you sure", Daisy asked.

"Yes." He took a deep breath, the ringing finally stopping. "I can hear his heartbeat. He's tired."

"Great, by the time he's ready for a nap, we'll be dead", Daisy said.

Matt huffed out a laugh. "Not quite. If we all engage at the same time, we can overwhelm him."

"How do you know that will work", Yelena asked.

Matt gulped. "I don't know if it will work."

The three of them got up. The four people on the second floor breathing hard and bloody. The Ghost lifted and clenched his fists. The other three did the same.

"Remember, we all have to stay on him", Matt said. The women nodded.

The three ran at him. The Ghost narrowed his eyes. He dodged the first punch that came from Yelena. He grabbed her arm. He ducked under Daisy's punch and kicked her back. Matt grabbed the arm that was not holding Yelena.

The Ghost tried but failed to break free from his hold. Yelena, however, broke free of the Ghost's hold and kicked the Ghost in the chest. Right as Yelena did that, Matt let go of his arm. The Ghost stumbled back. Daisy swept his leg out from under him making him fall.

He did not spend much time on the ground. The Ghost got back on his feet. The three surrounded him. The Ghost charged at Matt. The Devil did not expect it. The Ghost grabbed his head and pulled it down and brought his leg up to meet it.

Matt tried to regain himself but the Ghost tackled him to the ground. He punched Matt in the face repeatedly. Yelena grabbed the Ghost's arm and threw him off of Matt. The Ghost stood and pulled out a knife just as Daisy ran at him. She grabbed his hand that was holding the knife right before he could use it. She disarmed him.

He kicked her in the leg and she screamed. She was not sure but it felt like he broke her leg. The Ghost spun around and flipped her over him. Yelena ran at him and jumped onto his back. It was an unconventional move but she could not think of anything better.

She wrapped one arm around his neck. The Ghost stumbled around trying to get her off him. He finally slammed her against a column. She managed to stay on him. The Ghost did it again. She still did not go anywhere. Yelena grabbed the syringe.

Yelena was about to inject it but he slammed her against the column one more time before getting a hold of her arm and throwing her off him. When she hit the ground, the syringe rolled out of her hand. He looked down and made eye contact with her.

She did not know what to expect from the man standing over head, but it was not a fist coming straight down to her face. Yelena moved her head just enough. The fist hit the ground. She brought her leg up to kick him in the face.

The Ghost did not have time to react as Daisy blasted his legs so he fell to his knees. Yelena grabbed the syringe. Matt stood and kicked the billy club by his foot. The billy club bounced off a column and hit the Ghost on the side of his head. Yelena quickly got up and injected him in the neck with the syringe.

He fell to the ground, unconscious. Yelena removed the syringe from his neck. Matt walked over to Daisy because she was struggling to stand. Daisy leaned against him. Yelena knelt next to Clint as he stirred.

Yelena put an arm around Clint's neck to help him sit up. "Yelena", he asked as he looked around. Clint felt arms wrap around his neck.

"I've missed you", Yelena whispered into his ear.

Clint brought his hand up to one of her arms. He rubbed it with his thumb. He was about to speak but realization slowly sunk in his mind. He started remembering everything he did. "What have I done?"

Yelena looked at Daisy who was still leaning against Matt. The injured inhuman looked at Yelena before closing her eyes and sighing.

"You remember everything, don't you", Matt asked.

Clint only nodded. Yelena's arms tightened around him. She kissed his head softly.

 

Outside the Warehouse...

 

Natasha, Mack, and Charlie Team arrived to give aid to Alpha Team. With their help, the Poseidon's Blood agents were easily overwhelmed. Soon after, Steve with Bravo Team and Coulson arrived. The large SHIELD presence cornered the agents. Knowing their rules and who their boss is, the agents were forced to kill themselves. This shocked Steve, Natasha, and Mack. Coulson ran past them to the stairs.

"Did they just do what I think they just did", Mack asked.

"Yes", Alpha One said. "They either die in battle or kill themselves. They will not allow themselves to be prisoners of SHIELD."

 

The Second Floor...

 

Yelena was now helping Daisy to stay on her feet. Clint was standing, looking out one of the non-broken windows. He finally stopped apologizing to them for almost killing them. Matt collected his billy clubs and put his cowl back on his head.

"Someone's coming", Matt said. "I have to leave." He walked to the window he jumped through earlier.

"Matt", Clint almost yelled. Matt turned his head slightly. "Thank you."

Matt nodded before jumping out the window.

"How is he blind if he does all that", Daisy asked when Matt disappeared.

Yelena chuckled.

"Daisy! Yelena!" Coulson ran into the large room with his gun raised. He saw Daisy leaning against Yelena and Clint not facing them. He slowly put his gun down. "What happened?"

"We saved Clint", Yelena said.

She helped Daisy walk over to Coulson. After he and Daisy shared a quick hug, Yelena helped Daisy walk to the stairs. Coulson watched them until they were out of sight. Once gone, he looked at Clint who never turned around.

"How are you feeling", Coulson asked.

"Like I nearly killed everyone I care about."

"It was not your-"

"Don't", Clint yelled. Coulson jumped slightly. "I heard that a lot after New York. I don't want to hear it again."

Coulson sighed. "You weren't in control, Clint. Not then, not now."

"Doesn't change anything."

 

Outside the Warehouse...

 

Yelena and Daisy walked outside. Mack and an Alpha agent ran over to help Daisy. Lucky for her, SHIELD medics were already there. Natasha instantly embraced her sister. Yelena wrapped her arms tightly around the redhead.

They separated. Natasha looked Yelena up and down. "Are you okay?"

Yelena smiled. "I'm fine. Just a little banged up is all. Daisy took the worst of it."

"And Clint?"

"On the second floor with Coulson." Natasha hugged her again before walking to the door. Yelena grabbed her arm. "He remembers everything, Natasha. He remembers everything he did."

Natasha nodded then ran inside.

When Natasha got to the second floor, she saw Clint still looking out the window and Coulson just standing there. She walked inside the room and Clint turned around. She walked toward him and embraced him. After a second or two, they broke apart.

"How's your head", she asked.

"It feels like it was thrown into a blender again. I had no choice but to follow her orders."

Natasha smiled. "Well, Simmons said that the stuff Yelena injected you with is temporary. We need to get you to the Triskelion."

Clint nodded. "Right."

Natasha turned around. She and Coulson began walking to the stairs with Clint right behind them.

BANG

Natasha and Coulson both spun around with their guns in hand. Their eyes widened when they watched the horror unfold before them. Clint dropped to his knees then to the ground. Blood slowly coming out of the back of his neck.

"Clint", Natasha yelled.

Coulson grabbed her and pushed her behind a column. Whoever shot Clint fired two more times.

"Coulson, what's going on", Fury asked.

"Communications are back up", Coulson said to himself. "Sniper on the South building."

Everyone outside looked to the roof of the building in the South direction.

"You two with me", Steve said to two Alpha agents. The three ran to the building.

"Barton's down", Natasha said.

Yelena turned around and ran into the building. She heard Daisy yelling for her but she was not going to listen. When she got to the second floor, she ran straight to Clint. She could hear ragged muffled breaths coming from him.

She completely ignored the commands coming from her sister and her superior. She put her hand over the hole in the back of his neck where the blood was coming from. Yelena knew she had to think of something to stop the bleeding but she was to focused on not losing herself.

 

The Roof of the South Building...

 

The Poseidon's Blood agent fired three shots and stopped. That was all he was ordered to fire. He put the rifle on the ground and took it apart to put it away. He knew SHIELD was coming for him.

Midway through putting the rifle away, he stopped. He slowly stood up and turned around. He was staring at a man dressed in red and black. The man was holding both billy clubs.

"You're going to pay for that", he said.

The agent grabbed out his electric rod. "We will see about that."

The Devil wasted no time. He ran at the agent who just shot his friend. The agent swung his rod but the Devil stopped the hit. He knocked the weapon out of the agent's hand. The Devil hit the agent across the head with the billy club.

The agent fell to the ground still conscious. He tried to push himself up but the Devil hit him in the back with the billy club. Again, the agent hit the ground. The agent groaned. The Devil kicked him in the face for good measure. Once the agent was unconscious, Matt heard the sound of footsteps getting louder. He ran to the ladder on the backside of the building and climbed down.

Chapter 29: The Archer and the Ghost

Yelena stood in the waiting room of the hospital in Washington D.C. Blood covered her hands, the sleeves of her uniform, and much of her vest. Natasha stood next to her. Their eyes on Clint as he was being wheeled away on a gurney.

Daisy was also at the hospital for her leg. The only other people to follow them were Alpha Team. Fury ordered them to watch over Clint. Everyone else returned to the Triskelion on Fury's orders. They had to escort any living Poseidon's Blood agent, including the one who shot Clint, back to the Triskelion for questioning.

Yelena stood frozen where she was. Her eyes were firmly planted on the two closed doors in the hallway she could not pass through. She felt a tear roll down her cheek. Yelena turned her head when she felt a hand on her shoulder. Natasha also had tears in her eyes.

Yelena wrapped her arms around Natasha's neck. Natasha reciprocated the hug. Natasha did not care about getting blood on her suit, she only wanted to hold her hurting sister. Yelena started crying into Natasha's neck.

 

Two Hours Later...

 

Yelena and Natasha were in the waiting room...still waiting. Daisy joined the two right after she was discharged. She had a cast on her leg and used crutches to hop into the waiting room. She sat down as soon as Yelena released her from a hug. Like Natasha, Daisy did not care about getting blood on her uniform.

The inhuman took notice that neither of them were sitting down. At first, she thought it was about the blood but eventually realized it was because of Clint. Their nerves were keeping them from being able to be still. She was about to speak but the doctor walked through the doors holding two small clear containers.

"Are you with Agent Barton", the doctor asked looking at Yelena and Natasha.

"Yes", Yelena replied.

"We were able to remove the bullet", he said. Daisy quirked her brow. The doctor handed Yelena the container with the bullet.

"Is he okay", Natasha asked.

"Surprisingly, yes."

"Why is it surprising", Yelena asked.

"The bullet was on a trajectory with his brain stem. It should have killed him."

"Why didn't it", Daisy asked when she finally got to the group.

"Because of this", the doctor said as he handed Yelena the other container. "Whatever it is saved his life."

The three women looked at the container. An SD card sized chip inside it.

"Can we see him", Yelena asked.

The doctor sighed. "I'm afraid not yet. He's not in the clear yet. I promise to find you when he's ready for visitors."

"Thank you", Natasha said.

The doctor nodded before turning and walking away.

The three women walked back to the chairs to let Daisy sit down. It was also the first time that Natasha could sit down since arriving at the hospital. Yelena did not know what to do. She ran her hand down her face smearing her face with blood. She did not care, her nerves finally calming down.

Daisy grabbed the container holding the chip. "This thing is fried. I'm shocked they were able to remove it from his neck."

"Yeah, the bullet really damaged it", Natasha said.

"That's another odd situation", Daisy said.

"What do you mean", Yelena asked.

Daisy set down the D3 chip container and picked up the one with the bullet. "Clint was shot by a Blood agent using a 50 caliber. Why would the Blood agent use a metal bullet unless it was intentional? He could have shot Clint with a laser rifle."

Yelena and Natasha looked at each other. "Valentina must have ordered the agent to use a real sniper rifle", Yelena said.

"But why", Natasha asked. She looked at Daisy. "Are you going to tell Coulson this?"

Daisy nodded. "Yeah. Coulson had to escort the living Blood agents but he will pick me up. I'll tell him then."

"Are you going home", Yelena asked.

"Hell no. Now that Clint is not a threat we have to worry about, I'm going to figure out what he was doing before he was turned against us."

"You're going to Iowa", Natasha asked.

Daisy shook her head. "No. I'm going to look through Clint's files." The two women looked at her confused. "When he got the report about Echo Team being killed, he told me he wanted to develop a way to send information to a more secure system."

"How", Natasha asked.

"I developed a way to send information to a secondary SHIELD system that they don't use. I guess I'm hoping Clint saved stuff to it during the Iowa infiltration."

"He told me about the report. Why did the idea come from it", Yelena asked.

"As much as he blamed himself for their deaths, he wished they were able to send SHIELD information about what they found instead of relying on them bringing it back."

Not much else was said after that because Coulson arrived. After a brief update, Coulson and Daisy left. Yelena was finally able to sit down. Natasha sat next to her and rubbed her back.

"Since he's out of surgery, we should get cleaned up", Natasha said.

"I'm not going anywhere until I see him."

"Yelena, there is nothing we can do for him here. And besides, Alpha Team is here. He won't be alone."

"I know." She turned her head to look at Natasha. "I just don't want to leave until I see for myself he's okay."

Natasha nodded. "Okay." She continued to rub Yelena's back.

 

One Hour Later...

 

The doctor walked into the waiting room to tell them Clint was ready for visitors. He also said that he was still unconscious and would not be up for a while. The doctor brought them to his room. Yelena walked over to Clint's body and placed her hand on his cheek. She washed the blood off her hands first. She stared at his face and admired the peace she saw.

Natasha walked to the other side of the bed. She grabbed Clint's hand and squeezed it. Like Yelena, she could see the peaceful look on his face. A look neither of them have seen in a long time.

 

* * * * * * * * * *

 

Clint slowly opened his eyes. The sun shining right in his face. He brought his hand up to cover his eyes. Some sand and dirt fell on his face when he did that. When his eyes adjusted to the light, he quirked his brow. He managed to sit up. Then he noticed something was off.

Clint looked around. Sand, hills, and dead plants. He knew he was in a desert. He looked at his hands and noticed he was wearing tan combat gloves. Clint's eyes wandered to the rest of his clothes. A Marines Special Ops uniform covered his body.

"What the hell."

Clint slowly stood up and looked around. Nothing but desert surrounded him. When he did a 180, he saw dark smoke rising to the sky. Acting on impulse, Clint started running to the smoke.

As soon as he arrived, Clint froze. He was standing on top of a hill looking down at two burning humvees. His eyes looked at everything around the scene but stopped on the green/brown lump in the dirt. It took no time for him to know what it was. Or rather, who it was. Clint was staring at the body of his old friend Alex Thompson.

Out of the corner of his eye, a black figure appeared next to him. "It's saddening. The final turning point in my creating and this is how it looked like when you arrived at the base."

Suddenly, the Ghost kicked Clint in the back. Clint rolled down the hill. He tried to stop himself but there was nothing to grab. When he stopped rolling, he pushed himself onto his feet. Clint could feel the heat radiating off of the humvees.

The Ghost ran down the hill. Sliding is more like it but he was trying to run. Using the gravity and momentum, the Ghost tackled Clint hard to the ground. The Ghost, on top of Clint, started punching Clint in the face. He hit Clint three or four times.

Clint blocked the next punch and threw the Ghost off him. The Ghost rolled a few feet before getting up. Clint managed to also get onto his feet. The two clenched their fists.

"What is this", Clint asked.

"You don't know?" Clint shook his head. "We are in your consciousness. Or rather our consciousness. In the real world, your body, our body, is in a hospital bed. The physical body is at rest but the mind is hard at work. You and I are fighting for control. Since I was last to control the body, I'm still more in control of the mind."

"Then I guess I have to take it back", Clint muttered.

The Ghost laughed. "You've been losing control for years. Now that I've taken control, you expect to take it back. Except your losses, Clint. I told you to enjoy the time with them while you could. That time is over. You have lost."

Clint clenched his fists tighter. "You haven't won yet."

The two ran at each other.

 

* * * * * * * * * *

 

At the Triskelion...

After Daisy changed, Coulson helped Daisy get situated in Clint's office. They both knew that he would not mind her using his desk and files to do her work. They both also agreed never to tell him. As soon as Coulson left the office, Daisy got to work on her computer.

The system she needed to access was created by her so it took her no time to access it. Once inside, she started looking through the mess of data. The system may have been left untouched by SHIELD but it was still a mess she had to fix.

About an hour later, Daisy was still looking through the data. To occasionally distract herself, she texted back and forth with Yelena about Clint's condition. Daisy became surprised when she got a text saying Clint's vitals took a sudden turn. What surprised her more was that the doctors have no explanation for it.

After fifteen more minutes, she finally found the photos Clint took while in Iowa. She started looking through them and became mortified. Daisy grabbed her phone and called Coulson. She told him to also bring Fury with him.

The two superiors, also accompanied by Hill, walked into the office minutes later to see Daisy looking through paper files Clint made on Poseidon's Blood.

"What did you find Agent Johnson", Fury asked.

"I discovered what Clint found in Iowa", she replied. "And it's not good."

"What is it", Coulson asked.

"Better if I show you. I cannot explain it."

Daisy gave Fury the tablet. He looked at the photos Clint took, Coulson and Hill on either side of him also seeing the photos. The three had the same horrific look that Daisy had when she first saw them.

"Titanomachy", Coulson asked. They looked at Daisy.

"According to Greek mythology, it was the war between the titans and the gods."

"Are these all the photos", Fury asked.

Daisy nodded. "All I could find, yes."

Fury turned to Hill. "Send Bravo and Charlie Team to that cite. I want them to bring back everything they find."

"Understood", Hill said. She turned around and walked out.

"If only Valentina left out something on what she used to take control of him", Coulson said.

Daisy quirked her brow. "Clint may have a theory on that." They looked at her. Daisy looked through the stack of files and pulled one out. "Here it is." She looked at Coulson. "Do you remember when the Widows destroyed the Red Room?"

"Yes."

"Well, fun fact, they fought a Taskmaster."

"What", Fury and Coulson yelled in unison.

"What do you mean", Coulson asked.

"I don't know a whole lot and Clint didn't write down much but it says they fought a prototype."

"Explains how they're still alive", Coulson said.

Daisy set the file down in front of them. "When they told him about the Taskmaster and the mind control stuff, Clint theorized that Valentina traded a prototype suit for the formula on that stuff."

"Makes sense", Coulson said.

"When I was in the lab with them talking to Fitzsimmons, they said the mind control serum only effected the female gene. Natasha said it could be altered."

"Must be why Valentina waited to use it", Fury said. Coulson looked at him. "She needed her scientists to change it so it would effect males. Can you imagine how much damage the Ghost could have caused then?"

Coulson sighed. "A lot. SHIELD still being in the reconstruction phase. He would have torn us apart."

"Find anything else", Fury asked.

"No. The photos of the missiles, schematics, maps, and articles were all that he took in Iowa. Besides what Bravo and Charlie Team find, Clint is the only one who can explain what was there."

"Then we won't know anything until he wakes up", Coulson said.

Fury nodded. "I guess we wait until we here from the teams or Romanov and Belova." Fury turned around and left.

"Can you take me back to the hospital", Daisy asked.

Coulson quirked his brow. "Why?"

"I should tell them about this...and I want to be there for him and them."

Coulson nodded. "Let's go."

 

Thirty Minutes Later...

 

Coulson dropped Daisy off at the hospital. He, of course, went with her to check on Clint. When they got to his room, Natasha pulled them aside. She said his condition did not change. His vitals were not where the doctors preferred and his body would occasionally spasm. His head would shoot from side to side.

Natasha also said the doctors were baffled. She said they tried to give him different medications to calm his body but nothing worked. They looked at Clint. Daisy's eyes wandered to Yelena, who was next to Clint holding his hand.

After that, Coulson left. Yelena never acknowledged his presence. She has yet to acknowledge Daisy's own. Natasha and Daisy walked outside the room. That is when Daisy told Natasha about what she found. She would have wanted to say it to both of them but she understood Yelena's reluctance to leave Clint's side.

Natasha was very surprised about what Daisy said. She had no idea that Clint was theorizing those things about the Taskmaster and the Red Room. The missiles really peaked her interest. The former SHIELD agent remembered that Clint feared a retaliation of some sort.

After a small discussion about that, the two took a walk to the cafeteria. They both needed coffee even if it is hospital coffee.

"I'm concerned about Yelena", Natasha said as they sat down at one of the tables.

"Her boyfriend and father of her child is in a hospital bed after trying to kill her", Daisy replied. "I think she has an excuse to act the way she is."

"I'm not denying that. I'm just saying she needs a break. She's still covered in blood, tired, and has not been checked out medically."

"You think she has to?"

"I haven't seen any injuries and she has not complained. I don't know if it's because she actually isn't hurt or if she is trying to be strong."

"Have you recommended she go home for a little bit?"

"I tried but she won't go anywhere until Clint wakes up."

"You want me to try to convince her?"

Natasha sighed. "Go ahead."

The two finished their coffees and Daisy ended up getting food. Natasha did not complain. She got a bag of chips for Yelena. Knowing the blonde, she may not eat but it would be good to have the food there.

After Daisy finished, they went back to Clint's room. Upon arrival, Daisy went to sit next to Yelena. Natasha stood by the door but did not move closer.

"I'm not going anywhere", Yelena said before Daisy could say a word.

Daisy sighed. She set her crutches against the wall before sitting down in the chair next to Yelena. "Staying here is not doing anything to help him right now. I'm not saying you go home for the night, I'm saying go home for a few hours."

"I want to be here when he wakes up."

"You don't know when that will be. Go home, clean yourself off, and spend some time with Natalie. She's the one who needs you right now."

Yelena looked at Daisy. "What about him?"

"I'll stay with him. And if he wakes up, I'll call you."

Yelena looked at Natasha. The redhead smiled and nodded. Yelena looked at Clint. "Fine", she said softly. She squeezed Clint's hand before standing up.

Yelena walked over to Natasha. After saying bye to Daisy, the two left. Daisy sat down in the chair previously occupied by Yelena. She put her arms on the bed next to Clint's leg and rested her chin on her arms. She watched her friend spasm, knowing there was nothing she could do for him.

 

* * * * * * * * * *

 

The Ghost flipped Clint over him. The sand cushioned some of the blow but not much. Clint grunted when he hit the ground. The Ghost grabbed Clint's vest and pulled him up. He then punched Clint in the face repeatedly. He let go of the vest and let Clint drop back to the ground.

The Ghost got up and walked a few feet away from Clint's body. He turned around and watched Clint struggle to get up. Once Clint was on his feet, he looked at the Ghost.

"You getting tired", Clint asked.

The Ghost smiled. "No, just catching my breath. I admit you are a good fighter."

Clint managed to remove the Ghost's mask earlier in the fight. Clint was staring back at himself. Both men were bloody and sweaty. The sun plus the desert heat creating an unbearable fighting environment.Their suits also making it difficult.

The Ghost ran at him. He threw a punch that Clint blocked. Knowing what was next, Clint caught the Ghost's fist. Clint kicked the Ghost's leg and the Ghost fell onto one knee. Clint pushed himself back and swiftly kicked the Ghost in his face.

The Ghost fell to the ground. Clint was barely able to stand. The wobbling in his legs causing him to drop to his knees. He looked at the Ghost. The man in black and gold breathing hard and unable to get up.

"This is insane", Clint muttered to himself.

The Ghost laughed. "We are just getting started."

The Ghost rolled over and pushed himself up. Clint got up with him. The Ghost pulled out his knife and threw it at Clint. The SHIELD agent moved his body a few inches and caught the hilt of the blade. He was not fast enough to realize it was a distraction.

The Ghost punched Clint in the chest causing him to drop the knife. The Ghost got behind Clint and wrapped his arms around Clint's neck and tied to choke him. Clint struggled to brake free of the Ghost's hold. He knew the normal escape moves would be useless because the Ghost would expect them.

 

* * * * * * * * * *

 

Three Hours Later...

 

Yelena and Natasha returned to the hospital. Both women were showered and in fresh clothes. They were both relieved to be in clean clothes. Yelena managed to get a quick nap which helped her a lot. Natalie also really helped the two of them calm down.

A part of Yelena wanted to bring Natalie to the hospital but her better judgement won. She did not want Natalie to see her father in that bed. The child may be younger than a year but Yelena did not want to do that.

Natasha and Yelena entered Clint's room. Nothing had changed. Daisy had moved but to get more comfort for her broken leg. Clint was still having spams and his vitals were high.

Daisy stood up out of Yelena's chair intending to give it back to Yelena but she denied. Daisy sat back down while Yelena took the other chair and moved it closer to Clint's bed. She instantly took Clint's hand again.

Daisy looked at her phone when she felt it buzz. "Dammit", she said under her breath after reading it.

"What is it", Natasha asked as she sat on the arm of Yelena's chair.

"Fury sent Bravo and Charlie Team to Iowa to investigate the place Clint looked through. They didn't find anything."

"Nothing", Yelena asked.

"No. They must have moved everything after Clint looked through the place."

"What does that mean for us", Natasha asked.

"It means that there are missiles out there with the capabilities to cause a great deal of damage and we don't know where to look."

 

* * * * * * * * * *

 

"Now, you will die", the Ghost said.

The Ghost swung his sword but Clint ducked under it. He kicked the hand holding the sword causing the Ghost to drop the blade. Clint threw a punch but the Ghost caught his arm, hit him in the chest, and flipped him.

The Ghost was about to stomp on Clint's face but he rolled out of the way. Clint spun around and swept the Ghost's legs out from under him. The Ghost fell onto his back and groaned. Clint, in his weak state, stumbled and fell on his back.

Both men were out of breath.

"We cannot keep doing this", Clint said.

The Ghost sat up. "What are you talking about?"

Clint sat up too. "You and I are an equal match for each other. We're going to end up killing each other. What happens if we both die here?"

"Then the brain dies and you know what follows."

Clint sighed. "And if one of us wins?"

"Then the other dies. And so does the possibility of the other taking any control of the mind."

"Not a favorable outcome either", Clint whispered. "There has to be a better way."

The Ghost quirked his brow. "What do you propose?"

"For six years, you've been able to take control without much oversight. If you agree to stay in my control then I will let you out when the situation calls for it."

"And when would that be? The day you recruited the sisters, you chained me up. Since then, I've been fighting for freedom. When would you let me free?"

Clint thought for a second. "You're considerably faster than I am. Your skills can beat Taskmaster faster than mine. Believe me, I will let you out from time to time but it has to be when I say."

The Ghost stood up. Clint followed. The Ghost extended his hand. "Deal."

Clint took his hand. "Deal."

 

* * * * * * * * * *

 

Clint slowly opened his eyes. He was expecting bright lights to hit his eyes but that was not the case. The lights on the ceiling were off and most of the room was dark. The only light in the room came from the lamp on the stand next to him.

He turned his head slowly. The bandage around his neck making it difficult to move. When he did turn his head, he saw Yelena cuddled up in a ball in the chair. He smiled. His eyes wandered to the windows and noticed it was dark. He continued to let his eyes wander and then he saw the suit packed in a plastic bag. The sword hilt on top of it.

Noticing the suit caused him to remember the agreement between him and the Ghost. Then he took notice of something else. Something that made him smile. His mind is quiet, so quiet. It was peaceful. A peace he had been wanting for years.

 

Two Weeks Later...

 

Clint stood in an alleyway that was a few blocks away from his apartment building. Fire rose from the oil drum in front of him. The heat from the fire brushing against his face. He had no idea why he was doing this but he felt it to be the right thing.

Clint threw a file into the fire. His eyes watched the papers burn. He grabbed another file from the box and threw it inside the oil drum. He felt a small satisfaction watching the files burn to mere ashes, never to be seen again.

"Does Fury know you're burning those files", Coulson asked walking up behind Clint.

Clint turned his head slightly. "He does. It took some convincing but Fury finally allowed it."

Coulson laughed. "I'm surprised but at the same time, I'm not." Coulson looked at the fire. "It's good these will never see the light of day again."

"Yeah." Clint opened the next box of files. "I just wish it was this easy to get rid of the memories."

"Have you destroyed the suit?"

"It's fire proof and resistant to almost every element on Earth. How would I do that?"

"I don't know. You made the suit, you tell me."

Clint snorted. "I don't know either." Clint poured more gasoline into the oil drum before throwing a few files inside. "There's no point in having these if I know it all."

"Where was that attitude before?"

"In a storage room with the suit and files."

Coulson smirked. "Fair point."

Clint quirked his brow. "How did you find me?"

"Yelena told me where you were and what you were doing."

"Of course she did." Clint threw another GHOST mission file into the burning oil drum.

The two stood in silence for a while. The crackle of the fire was all the noise being made. Clint continued to throw files into the fire. He let Coulson occasionally throw some into it.

"Have you ever thought about taking a break", Coulson asked.

"Why? Have you?"

"I mean it Clint. Have you ever thought about taking a break?"

Clint stared at the fire. He watched the file he just threw in burn. "I did. I gave up on that idea when I realized it was impossible."

"Impossible?"

"Yeah. The job gets in the way. And if not the job, then something else."

Coulson sighed. "What if it was an order?"

"An order to take a break?"

Coulson nodded. "Would you be able to take a break if it was an order?"

Clint chuckled. "I don't know. Fury wants me to take a break?"

"Yes. This is the second time someone else has had control of your brain. The second time you've attacked your friends. He just wants to make sure you're in your right mind."

"He thinks I'm not?"

"Clint, he knows the Ghost took control during the Demon Core mission. Then Valentina took control of him. It's not just you that Fury wants to keep safe."

Clint threw another file into the fire. "I get it Coulson."

"He doesn't care how much time you take off, he just wants you to return in a good state of mind. Not a mind itching for a fight."

"Valentina is out there somewhere. I have to find her, not take a break."

"And that is what he's talking about, Clint. We know you made an agreement with him bu the has been unpredictable in the past. Who's to say he won't be again?"

"I understand."

"He'll let you back in the field later. For now, take a vacation. Take Yelena and Natalie somewhere. Just get out of D.C. Maybe leave the East Coast too."

Clint smirked. "Yeah. Thanks Coulson."

Coulson put his hand on Clint's back before turning around and walking away.

Clint finished throwing the files into the fire. Once he knew they were all burned and could not be restored, he turned around. He threw his hood over his head and walked back to his apartment. A certain weight being lifted off his shoulders.

When Clint returned to his apartment, he quietly opened and closed the door. It was not late but he knew Yelena would be putting Natalie down for the night. He carefully stepped through the dimly lit apartment. He intended to go straight to the bedroom but stopped at Natalie's door.

The soothing lullaby Yelena was humming filled Clint's ears. He leaned against the wall on the outside of the nursery and listened. Clint closed his eyes and let the sound flood his ears. He began to contemplate what Coulson told him. Maybe a break would be good for him.

Chapter 30: O.S.H.E.R.A.

Notes:

I am so sorry that this chapter is late everyone. I've had a lot going on keeping me from writing. I hope you enjoy!

A man in a suit and tie ran past several Poseidon’s Blood agents. Some of them looking at him when he passed them. The man ran straight to where Valentina was standing and speaking with two of her agents.

“Ma’am, we have a problem”, he said.

Valentina looked at him. “What is it?”

“194 was taken into SHIELD custody.”

“Did he complete his task?”

The man gulped. “According to our spies, Agent Barton was taken to a hospital in D.C.”

Valentina sighed. “So, he failed?”

“I sent an agent to the hospital but she cannot get close. Alpha Team is watching Barton’s room closely. They have the whole floor secured.”

“The Ghost failed and Agent Barton is not dead. What is the plan now”, the agent previously talking to Valentina asked.

Valentina smiled. “You both are worrying too much. SHIELD has no idea where we are, where the missiles are, or what our targets are. The map Barton saw in the water facility is not specific enough for him to discover our targets.”

“What if he gets to us first?”

Valentina laughed. “He won’t be fast enough to stop us.”

 

Two Months Later…

 

Clint could not help the smile on his face. He and Yelena were in bed not doing anything. Literally nothing. Yelena was snuggled against Clint’s side; her hand under his shirt stroking a scar on his chest. Clint had his arms wrapped around her body. His head resting on her own. He kissed her head every few minutes.

Natalie finally started to sleep through the night much to the delight of them both. That gave them the ability to also sleep through the night. And do some other things without being interrupted by a crying baby.

The events of the last two months contributing to his happiness. As soon as he was released from the hospital, and burned the files, he, Yelena, and Natalie left the city. They went to a cabin in the middle of nowhere in Ruidoso, New Mexico.

They stayed there for three weeks. It was a change they both needed badly. Clint took advantage of the wilderness by waking up early and taking runs on a trail he found near the cabin. Yelena loved being able to spend quality time with Clint and their daughter.

Before they left D.C, Coulson made it clear that no one could contact them about work. Clint made no protests which surprised everyone. Coulson also suggested they do not bring any weapons. Clint and Yelena ignored that completely.

Another fun part of the cabin was the fire place. Their first night, after Clint put Natalie to bed, he and Yelena spent the night in front of the fire wrapped in each other’s arms. Rain soon started to pour making the night better.

Clint’s smile grew wider from the memories. He placed a soft kiss on Yelena’s head. She smiled and hummed. She moved her head up to look at him. Their eyes locked on each other before Yelena pushed herself up to kiss him.

Before they could go too far, Clint’s phone buzzed. Clint whined as Yelena chuckled and tucked her head under his chin. Clint grabbed his phone. As if on que, Natalie started crying. Yelena kissed Clint’s cheek before climbing off the bed. Clint was unphased by the kiss. He did not even feel her get off the bed.

Clint’s eyes were solely focused on the text he just received. Out of all the people who could have texted him, and he would have expected to text him, it was not this one person. Clint set the phone back down and started thinking.

A few minutes later, Yelena walked into the bedroom with Natalie in her arms. The baby grabbing at Yelena’s hair. When she walked in, she saw Clint zipping up his jacket. Yelena set Natalie on the bed and looked at Clint.

“What’s going on”, she asked.

“I have to go meet someone.”

“Who?”

“Do you remember the colonel I told you about?”

“Williams?”

Clint nodded. “He wants to meet with me.”

“He texts you after all these years and wants to talk?”

“I guess so.” Clint kissed Natalie on the head causing the baby to giggle. “I will see you when I get back.” Clint cupped Yelena’s face and kissed her before walking out of the bedroom.

 

Thirty Minutes Later…

 

Clint walked through the door of the café. He scanned the room. His training kicking in and assessing anyone who could be a threat. He always does this even when meeting someone he knows.

When he saw who he was looking for, he walked to that table. Clint smiled when he realized the table was at the back against the corner. It was a strategy he knew in order to have eyes on all the people in the building.

Clint sat down at the table and stared at the man across from him. The man was around 25 years older than Clint and it showed. He had a mostly grey, cleanly shaven beard, and no hair on his head. He was also wearing his Class A uniform.

“It’s good to see you again, Sergeant”, he said.

“You too, Sir.” Clint’s eyes wandered to the two stars on the collar. “General? Congratulations.”

Williams smiled. “Thank you.”

“Why are we here?”

Williams sighed. He opened the bag next to him and pulled out a folder. “It will be easier to just show you.” He set the folder down.

Clint grabbed the folder and opened it. His eyes widened. “What is this?”

“43 hours ago, a convoy returning from patrol was ambushed. The ones who did it killed the Marines without hesitation.”

“They attacked the convoy and left? They didn’t take anything?”

“They took something.” Williams grabbed another folder, opened it, and slid it over to Clint. “It’s why I called you, Clint.”

Clint looked at the photos in the folders. Some were of the dead Marines and others were of the humvees covered in bullet holes. Some of the photos showed bloody hand prints on the windows of the humvees. What did catch his attention is the photo of a window with ‘OSHERA’ written in blood.

“That’s not what I was expecting”, Clint whispered.

“Yeah. The man who took the photo was surprised too.”

Clint took the photo out of the folder. “Was it taken”, Clint asked exaggerating the ‘it’.

Williams nodded.

“Why was it outside the base? It should have never left the perimeter.”

“You know why. The team who protected it was killed years ago. We were forced to make due.”

Clint sighed. “Who was the OIC?”

Williams grabbed a third file from his bag. “I’m so sorry, Clint.” He slid the file to Clint.

Clint opened the file and his heat immediately sunk. “Vanessa”, he muttered.

“Her body was not found but that doesn’t mean-”

“It doesn’t mean she’s still alive. I know.” Clint read through her file. A lot of it was shocking to Clint. “She’s done a lot since I left.”

“Yes, she has. She talks about you a lot though. Always wondering how you are and what you are doing.”

“First Lieutenant.” Clint smiled. “I wish I stayed in touch with her.”

“Why didn’t you?”

Clint sighed. “My job gets in the way.” Clint looked at Vanessa’s file again. “Do you know where the rebels are?”

“Strangler’s Basin.”

Clint looked at Williams. “You’re joking, right?”

“I wish I was.”

Clint put the file down and ran his hand down his face. “Let me talk to my boss. I’ll call you when I have an answer.” Clint grabbed the folders.

“Understood.”

Clint left the cafe and returned to the apartment. He was expecting to see Yelena but she was not there. Lila, Natalie's regular babysitter, said that Yelena left for work. Clint hopped in the shower and got ready to go to the Triskelion.

Once he was ready, he kissed Natalie before leaving. While in his SUV, he started thinking about what to say to Fury. Missions like these are not exactly what Fury likes to be involved with.

As soon as he arrived, he went straight to Fury's office. Upon arrival, Clint saw Fury and Coulson talking. He also noticed they were looking at the TV screen on the wall.

"What's going on", Clint asked.

Fury and Coulson looked at each other. "Guess there's no point in hiding this", Fury said.

Clint looked at the screen. His eyes widened at what he was seeing. "Is that what I think it is?"

"Yes", Fury said. "We received it 45 minuted ago."

"Six hours ago, our satellites picked up a strong power surge in Norway. A power surge that matches that of New Mexico. And every other time he came to or left Earth", Coulson said.

"Now we're staring at a picture of his hammer broken into small pieces", Clint muttered.

"We haven't been able to contact him either. And the Avengers are also having trouble contacting him", Fury said.

"Great. So, while I'm gone, Tony adopts a ten year old who shoots webs, a mystical event occurs in Hong Kong, and now this."

"Welcome back", Coulson said.

Clint snorted. "What's next?"

"Twenty bucks says a flying donut attacks New York", Coulson said.

"That is so incredibly random. Deal."

"What do you need, Barton? I thought you were coming back next week", Fury said.

Clint walked over to Fury's desk. "General Hunter Williams contacted me this morning."

Coulson walked to the desk. "Isn't he the guy who ran the base from your Marine days?"

"Yes. He told me that 45 hours ago a Marine convoy was ambushed. Something very valuable to the Military was taken."

"What was taken", Fury asked.

Clint sighed. "I'm sorry, Sir but I cannot tell you."

"What", Fury asked while giving his agent that special look.

"I cannot tell you, Sir. All I can say is that it is very special to the Military and that base. I'm going to need you to trust me."

"Why did he come to you about it", Coulson asked.

"I was involved in the creation of the object."

Fury sighed. He looked at Coulson who did not reply. "What do you need from us?"

"Nothing. I just wanted you to know."

"You don't want back up?"

"Not from SHIELD agents."

"You may not have a choice in that", Coulson said.

"What are you talking about", Clint asked.

"I searched the coordinates of where the object may have been taken and there's a weak 0-8-4 signal."

"Then I will handle it", Clint said.

"I get the desert was your territory, Barton but we have to see what the signal is."

"It's not a desert, Coulson. It is a battle field that has been desolated by years of war. The rebels who ambushed and killed those Marines are still very active in that area. It's different than what our agents can handle."

"Then you choose who goes with you", Fury said. "You know that place better than us, you choose who helps you."

After ten minutes of arguing, Clint walked out of Fury's office. He was very upset with both of his superiors. He was so mad when he walked into his office that he did not even see Yelena sitting on his couch.

Clint walked over to his desk and sat down. His eyes on the files on the desk. When he did look up, he saw Yelena. The blonde woman was wearing her white suit with a new black vest since her previous uniform got ruined with blood.

"I was wondering where you were", Clint said. He was trying to hide his anger.

Yelena smiled. "I've been here the whole time." She got up and walked over to him. "Were you looking for me?"

"I got home and saw Lila with our daughter instead of you."

Yelena sat in his lap and wrapped her arms around his neck. She felt the tension in his body. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing."

"Don't lie to me, Clint. Did something happen when you met with Williams?"

Clint sighed. "He needs my help with something and I tried to convince Fury and Coulson to not send any SHIELD agents but they wouldn't listen."

"Why don't you want the help?"

"Because that place is different from what the agents are used to. I don't want to put them in danger or see what I've seen." Clint leaned his head against hers. "What are you doing here?"

Yelena sighed. "I'm going to be gone for a little while."

Clint pulled back. He quirked his brow. "Why?"

"Melina called me shortly after you left and told me that she knows the locations of other Widows still under a dead man's control."

"And she wants your help to save them?"

Yelena nodded. "I've already cleared it with Hill. I wanted to tell you in person before I left."

"How long will you be gone?"

"I don't know, Clint. Those Widows need my help though."

Clint nodded. "I get it. Just be safe, please. I don't want to be telling Natalie stories about you because you died."

Yelena leaned her head against his again. "I promise I'll be safe." She kissed him softly. When she pulled back, she saw the photos of the dead Marines and ambushed humvees. "Is that where you are going?"

Clint looked at the photos. "Yep. It's important that I go."

She looked at Clint. "What about Natalie?"

Clint thought for a second. "I can call Natasha. I bet she will love some alone time with her niece."

Yelena smiled. She leaned back in and kissed him.

 

One Hour Later...

 

Clint drove his SUV to the Joint Anacostia-Bolling Air Force Base in D.C. He handed his I.D to the soldier at the gate to the airfield. The soldier nodded to him and let him pass. Coulson, Daisy, and Mack, in the SUV behind Clint, also gave the soldier their I.D's. He let them go through too.

Clint was not happy about having to bring them along. Since he had no choice though, he decided that Coulson, Daisy, and Mack have the most experience for what they were doing. General Williams approved their coming along after he was told about the 0-8-4.

The exited their SUVs and walked over to the three soldiers standing a small distance away from the Boeing C-17 on the runway. Clint shook Williams' hand and introduced him to the three SHIELD agents.

"Is this everyone, Sir", one of the other soldiers asked. He was obviously the pilot of the C-17.

"No, we have one more coming. A last minute addition", Clint said.

Coulson, Mack, and Daisy looked at one another confused. "Who is it", Coulson asked.

"My back up."

"We're your back up", Mack said.

Clint smirked. "Believe me, you all have skills that will be useful but we are going into an active war zone. It's a different element out there. I need someone who has already had my back in a war zone."

A third car drove into the base and parked next to Clint's SUV. Everyone watched the driver exit the vehicle and grab a bag from the backseat. He closed the door and walked over to the group.

"Thanks for coming, Sam", Clint said as he gave his friend a hug.

Clint and Sam had become much closer during Clint's time off from SHIELD. He may have owed everyone an explanation but he felt he owed Sam a big one. Sam knew more than most about Clint's Marine life and about Vanessa. That meant, to Clint, that Sam deserved more of an explanation.

After they were able to sit down to talk, Sam was eventually able to forgive Clint. They even started to meet on a regular to talk. The SHIELD agent was relieved he was starting to earn Sam's trust back.

"Of course I would", Sam said. He looked at Williams. "Sir", Sam said as he extended his hand.

"Thank you for coming, Wilson", Williams said. "Has Barton read you in?"

"Only on what I was cleared to hear."

"Good." He turned around and walked to the big plane. "Let's go. Time is not on our side."

Everyone walked into the C-17. Daisy, Mack, and Coulson speaking with one of the soldiers about evacuation procedures. Williams went to the cockpit. Sam pulled out a book to read to pass the time.

Clint sat down as far from the others as the plane could allow. He unzipped his bag and pulled out Vanessa's personnel file. He had no intention of reading; he only wanted to look at her photo.

 

Four Hours Later...

 

"How much do you think we don't know", Daisy asked. She, Coulson, Mack, and Sam were playing a card game to waste some time.

"I think it's just what the object is. We know everything else", Mack said.

"Do you know", Daisy asked looking at Coulson.

"Nope."

Daisy looked at Sam.

"Clint only told me what I needed to know."

"And you're not the least bit curious", Mack asked.

"Of course I'm curious about what it is but this is personal for Clint. If we don't have to know then we don't need to know."

"Personal is an understatement", Daisy said. "That woman that whose body wasn't found, who is she?"

Sam turned his head to look at Clint. The archer was still staring at the photo of Vanessa. "An old friend of his from when he was a Marine. According to him, they were best friends. She was the only person he could trust after the night his team was killed."

"Damn", Mack said. He looked over at Clint. "Must be hard."

"She's also the reason he joined EOD. She had a friend who was in the job and got him the position."

"Geez", Daisy muttered.

Coulson shuffled the cards. "Anyone up for another game?"

"Deal me out", Sam said. He stood up and walked to Clint.

Clint never diverted his attention from the picture. He felt Sam sit next to him.

"How are you doing", Sam asked.

Clint looked at Sam. "Not good." Clint looked back at the picture.

Sam looked down at the picture. "Do you ever think about what would have happened if you stayed?"

Clint finally set the file to the side. He leaned his head back. "Sometimes I do. Don't get me wrong, I love Yelena and Natalie to death but I do wonder what could have been."

Sam hesitated on asking his next question but he had to ask. "You think we are going to find her body?"

"I don't know. A part of me is hoping we do because she deserves a proper burial and funeral."

"And the other part?"

"Is saying she's still alive."

"Clint-"

"I know what you're going to say, Sam." Clint looked at Sam. "The likelihood of Vanessa still being alive is small. It's a false hope, I know."

"Can you stay on the right?"

"I guess we're going to find out."

 

LOCATION: Classified
TIME: 19:27

 

The C-17 landed on the airstrip at the Marine base. The base was somewhere in the Registan Desert.

The five walked down the ramp right behind Williams and two other soldiers. As they walked through the base, following Williams to the command center, the soldiers they passed saluted Clint.

"Why are they saluting him? He's not a Marine anymore", Daisy whispered to Sam.

"It's a sign of respect. Clint was a Marine stationed here. Once a Marine, always a Marine."

"I didn't even know this base existed", Coulson said outloud.

"This base is need to know. That's why it's in the middle of nowhere", Williams said. "Very few outside of those stationed here know about it."

"Why the cloak and dagger", Mack asked.

"Because of the operations", Clint said. Everyone looked at him as they walked. "The base is used by multiple Special Ops teams to perform their operations. It's used for quick extractions, quick support, and so on."

After dropping their bags off in their trailers, the group walked into the command center. There were computer monitors on a big rectangular table in the middle of the room. There were soldiers talking and working. There were also some maps on the walls. Some had pins in them and others were untouched.

Clint walked over to one of the maps and stared at it. Three soldiers were working right there and stopped talking when Clint walked to the map. Clint's eyes landed on the pin that was in the middle of Strangler's Basin.

General Williams walked over to Clint and stood next to him. The general began speaking but Clint did not hear a word. His mind was being flooded with memories of the night in that basin when his team was killed.

Now he has to face the fact that Vanessa may have been killed. And he has to face possibly finding her body there too.

"When do we leave", Daisy asked.

Clint heard that question. "Not tonight." He turned to look at them. "We will go there in the morning." With that, Clint walked out of the command center.

Everyone in the command center watched him walk out. Williams closed his eyes and shook his head.

"What was that", Daisy asked.

Sam sighed. "A man being forced to face his demons."

 

The Next Morning... Very Early...

 

Clint jogged the perimeter of the base. It was his fourth time going around the whole base. Sam joined him on his third lap around the base. The two were quiet for two laps and stopped for a break.

The sun was starting to rise. Both men were drenched in sweat and chugging their water bottles. The two walked to the mess hall and sat down at one of the tables. They sat there silently for a while as soldiers began filing in for breakfast.

At one point, Sam got up and grabbed two cups of coffee. He also grabbed two trays of food for them. He walked passed the table where Daisy and Mack were sitting and talking to some soldiers who were asking the SHIELD agents questions.

Sam sat back down at the table and slid the tray over to Clint. The archer took a look at the food and grabbed the coffee cup.

"She never judged me", Clint said after taking a sip.

"What", Sam asked. He cut into his food.

"Vanessa never judged me for what I did. The morning after the incident, I wouldn't talk to anyone. She was so patient with me. She didn't push. She didn't give me looks like some of the others did."

Sam took a bite of his food. "How come you didn't tell her your feelings? It was not against the rules."

"I was going to tell her, believe me. I really liked her."

"What stopped you?"

"I didn't want to ruin what we already had if it didn't work out."

Sam snorted. "That's the most cliche thing I have ever heard you say."

Clint smiled. "Yeah. Well, it's true."

 

One Hour Later...

 

The team was inside the command center looking at a diorama of the compound they were going to infiltrate. General Williams explained where the items they would retrieve are possibly hidden.

Coulson, Daisy, and Mack are planning on going after the 0-8-4 if it is there. They still were not 100% sure because of the weak signal. Sam and Clint are going after the item undisclosed to the others.

Clint, however, was not listening to the infiltration plan that Williams was explaining. Surrounding the diorama were the photos of the ambush. Clint's eyes were on the photo that said 'OSHERA' written in blood on the window of the humvee.

There was small doubt in his mind but he knew that the blood belonged to Vanessa. She is, or was, the only person that would have known to use the distress code. Then more distressing thoughts and questions invaded his mind.

If she is still alive, how injured is she? Why did the rebels take but her kill everyone else? The most distressing question he had is could he save her?

"Sergeant", Williams barked. Clint looked at the general. "You still with me?"

"Yes, Sir."

"Good. The bird leaves in ten. Gear up."

The team walked out of the command center. Sam noticed Clint said something to Williams before walking to the door. When he walked over to Sam, the two walked back to their trailer to put on their gear.

Mack, Coulson, and Daisy had to borrow uniforms because it was technically a Military operation so they could not where their SHIELD uniforms. Sam brought his old one that he had somewhere in storage.

The four of them went to the landing pad where the blackhawk was preparing to take off. Mack commented that he was surprised they had a uniform that fit him. Williams met the group a few yards away from the helicopter.

Clint finished putting on his gear. Before he walked out of the trailer, he grabbed a small piece of fabric from his bag. He wrapped it around his left forearm and walked out. As he walked through the base to the helipad, everyone he passed stared at him. It was no secret who Clint Barton was in that base but it was a surprise to see one of the legends back in uniform.

Clint walked to the helipad with his M27 Infantry Assault Rifle in his hand. Sam smiled as he noticed his friend's uniform. Clint had put the Birds of Prey patches back on the uniform but the fabric around his arm was unfamiliar to Sam.

Clint walked over to Williams and stood at attention. "Sir."

The helicopter rotor started up. "It's good to have you back, Sergeant", Williams yelled over the roar of the rotor.

"It's good to be back", Clint yelled. Clint jogged over the blackhawk and sat on the floor with his legs hanging out of the open doors. He noticed Sam's smile. "What?"

"What's with the handkerchief", Sam asked.

Clint looked at the fabric around his arm. "It's a talisman."

"I didn't know you believed in that", Sam said.

"We work with super soldiers, gods, and an inhuman. My beliefs in an object being good luck went out the window in 2011."

Sam laughed. What Clint said also elicited a laugh from Daisy, Mack, and Coulson.

One of the pilots looked back at Clint. The former Marine gave the pilot a thumbs up. The pilot nodded. Less than thirty seconds later, the blackhawk came off the ground.

 

Thirty Miles Southeast Later...

 

"We're two miles out, Sergeant", one of the pilots said.

"Copy that", Clint replied.

The blackhawk hovered fifteen feet above the ground. Clint dropped a rope to the ground. He was the first to slide down. Sam followed him. They put their guns up and were ready to fire. The others came down the rope.

As the blackhawk returned to the base, the five carefully made their way to the compound. Clint was in front of the group while Sam was at the back. Mack, Coulson, and Daisy stayed in the middle because they were less experienced in this area of infiltration.

They hiked up a hill and Clint stopped before reaching the top. He dropped to his stomach and crawled to the peak. The others stayed back and below the peak. Clint pulled out a pair of binoculars.

After a minute or two of watching, Clint pulled out his assault rifle and looked through the scope. He fired two shots. The two guards at the entrance dropped dead. Clint got back up on his feet and nodded to the others.

The five ran down the hill as quick as they could without falling. The clock for their operation started as soon as the two men dropped. Once at the entrance, Clint and Sam got on either side of the two rusted doors. Daisy noticed that the whole compound seemed to be old and rusty.

Clint kicked the doors in the middle and both swung open. Without hesitation, he and Sam entered the building. One second later, the gunfire started. Coulson, Mack, and Daisy looked at each other before entering.

Clint and Sam returned fire as best they could. The rebels were not expecting anyone so the five had the element of surprise. Coulson, Mack, and Daisy ran to take cover with Clint and Sam.

Sam fired his gun and killed the last guy firing at them. He and Clint rose from their cover positions and cleared the rest of the room. When done, Daisy, Coulson, and Mack came out from behind cover.

Coulson walked over to Mack and unzipped the pack on his back. He pulled out a scanner and turned it on. "It looks like the 0-8-4 is West of here."

"You three go after it", Clint said looking around. "Sam and I got the other object."

"Copy", Daisy said.

Sam walked over to stand next to Clint. "Don't be afraid to kill these guys. They aren't afraid to kill you."

"What", Coulson asked.

"You guys have spent a lot of time with icers. Here, it's kill or be killed. We're wearing the most hated uniform for thousands of miles."

"Thanks for the confidence boost, Clint", Daisy said.

Sam looked at his watch. He put his hand on Clint's shoulder. "We have to go."

"Do you know where to go", Mack asked.

Clint spun around, his back to the group, and pulled out his phone. He slowly turned with it, watching Wi-Fi signal. "We do now." Clint put his phone back and raised his gun.

"Good luck", Sam said to the others before joining Clint.

The others went to the West side, cautiously, while Clint and Sam went North.

Clint and Sam cleared their path to the object. If an unfriendly crossed their scopes, they would take them down. Their backs practically stayed attached so they were not looking in the same direction.

It was quiet most of the way to the object. They got to a small hallway and Clint stopped. Sam stopped right behind him. Clint put two fingers up telling Sam there were two unfriendly's by the door.

Sam tapped Clint's shoulder. Not a second later, Clint and Sam came out from around the corner. They both shot once. Clint killed the guy on the right while Sam killed the one on the left.

They approached the door. Hearing the sounds of tapping on a keyboard, Clint kicked the door open. The two entered and killed the three rebels who raised their guns. There was one more rebel in the room who was working on the computer.

Sam aimed his gun at the living rebel. He slowly raised his hands. Clint looked at all the computer monitors on the desk. His eyes traveled to the servers and hard drives. Clint walked over to the desk and ripped the wires out of one of the hard drives.

"Is that the right one", Sam asked.

"Yeah."

"How do you know? There's like 17 hard drives in here."

"I know because I created the damn thing."

"Barton, you copy?"

"Yeah. Go ahead, Johnson."

"You're going to want to hear this."

"On our way."

After Sam knocked out the rebel, they left to meet up with the others. They got back into the position of their backs touching. They traveled back to where they had originally split up with the others.

"You find the 0-8-4", Clint asked.

"There wasn't one", Coulson said.

"How's that possible?"

"Rust", Mack said.

Clint and Sam were confused. "What", Clint asked.

"Metal and an electrical current causing a magnetic field", Daisy said.

"One matching an 0-8-4", Sam asked.

"Apparently", Mack said.

"What is it I had to hear", Clint asked.

"A rebel said something interesting", Daisy said.

"Okay. What did he say?"

"A soldier is alive", Coulson said.

"What", Clint and Sam asked in unison.

"That's what he said", Coulson repeated. "He said it's a woman."

"Vanessa", Clint whispered. "Where's the rebel?"

"I had to knock him out", Mack said.

"Dammit. Did he tell you where?"

"Southeast side of the building. He said the boiler room", Daisy said. "We just don't know if he's being honest."

Clint thought for a second. He handed Sam the hard drive. "I'll find out. You guys get that thing out of here." Clint turned around but Sam grabbed his arm.

"The likelihood of her still being alive is low, Clint. You know that."

"She's a Marine, Sam. She deserves to come home and if she is dead, she deserves to be buried in home soil."

"Is that why you're doing this?"

Clint looked Sam right in the eye. "I loved her, Sam. I have to bring her home."

"Alone?"

"Who said I'm alone?" Clint started back in the direction of the boiler room. "Leave", Clint yelled.

The four did not have to be told twice. They ran to an old truck outside the compound. Then the gunshots started.

Sam and Mack jumped into the bed of the truck and returned fire. Coulson got into the driver seat while Daisy got in the passenger side. Once Coulson got the truck started, he floored it.

Clint cautiously stepped through the building to the boiler room. His eyes were focused on what was in front of him, but his mind was occupied on Vanessa.

"We don't know how many rebels are still alive", the voice of an old "friend" said.

"I know."

"We agreed you would let me out on certain occasions. Just you against an unknown number of rebels is that occasion."

"Fine. You're up."

The Ghost smiled. He threw his rifle to the side. He walked over to a column that had a rusted pipe going around it. He grabbed two ends and pulled a piece off of it. He followed the pipes to the boiler room.

The rebels who tried to attack him had no idea who they were fighting. The Ghost killed each one. A rusted pipe was the perfect weapon of choice for him, up close and personal.

When he got to the boiler room door, he kicked it open. The three men jumped at the sudden entry. The Ghost gave them no time to act. He killed all three in less than 10 seconds.

He looked to the middle of the room and froze. Clint took over again. He was in disbelief by what he was seeing. Vanessa was being held up by a chain attached to the ceiling. The tips of her boots barely touched the ground.

Her face was bloody and bruised. The same was said for the rest of her body. Clint found the keys to the chains and unlocked her hands. Vanessa fell into Clint's body. He tightly held her as she started to stir.

"Clint", she said groggily. "Is it... is it really... is it really you?"

Clint nodded. "Yeah, it's me."

Vanessa's arms tightened around Clint's neck. She was very weak so the grip was not very tight. "What are you doing here", she managed to say in full.

"I'm here to save you."

"What about the black box?"

"Don't worry, I got it."

Vanessa suddenly passed out. Clint shook her a few times but nothing. He checked her breathing and was relieved. Clint picked her up bridal style and carried her out. Clint knew this would keep him from fighting back but he had no choice.

Clint ran as fast as he could. Not many rebels were left but whoever were left was shooting at Clint. He saw a truck nearby and ran to it. He quickly put Vanessa in the passenger seat and hardwired the truck. As soon as it roared, he floored the gas.

They left just in time because Clint could see two F-16s in the distance. He smiled as they flew overhead and fired missiles at the compound. His smile grew when he saw the explosion. A certain peace of mind flooded over him.

 

Two Hours Later...

 

Clint sat in the chair next to Vanessa's bed in the infirmary. There was a blood line and an IV line going into her arm. Her face and body were bandaged and some wounds required stitches.

His hand was clutching hers. His thumb was gently rubbing small circles on her hand. He never left her side since arriving back at the base.

The others were in the mess hall eating and calming down. The three SHIELD agents were expecting Clint to join but Sam knew better.

"What the hell was on that hard drive", Daisy asked.

"We're not allowed to know", Sam said.

"It's the schematics for the base", General Williams said as he sat down. "It shows certain weaknesses of the base."

"That's why they wanted it", Mack said.

Williams nodded. "This base gets attacked, it could set back who knows how many Special Ops operations."

"Doesn't explain why they took Vanessa", Daisy said.

"She was the officer in charge", Sam said. "They thought she knew the access code."

"Does she", Coulson asked.

"No. Only Barton and I do."

"Why Clint", Mack asked.

"The Birds of Prey made it. They identified weaknesses in the base security and designed the schematics. Each member had a unique pass code."

 

Three More Hours Later...

 

The team got ready to leave the base. Sam shook Williams' hand and walked onto the plane. Daisy, Coulson, and Mack right behind him. Clint, however, was still in the trailer. He was staring at the handkerchief in his hands.

A knock on the door made him look up. He hid the fabric behind him when the door opened. He thought it to be Sam but was surprised to see Vanessa.

"What are you doing out of bed?"

"I wanted to see you before you left."

"I would have stopped by."

"I know." Vanessa smiled when she saw the handkerchief behind his back. "You still have that?"

Clint pulled it out. "Yeah. I couldn't get rid of it."

"I still remember when I gave it to you."

Clint smiled. "Me too." He fiddled with it. "I use it to calm down after a nightmare."

"They're back?"

"They never left."

"I'm so sorry, Clint." She sat down next to him. "How have you been handling them?"

"I um...", Clint cleared his throat. "I have an amazing support system."

Vanessa smiled. "Does she treat you well?"

Clint began laughing. He knew Vanessa would understand right away. "She does. Our daughter also helps a lot."

"Daughter? You have a kid?"

"I do."

"What's her name?"

"Natalie."

Vanessa smiled. "I'm happy for you, Clint."

Clint smiled back. "I should probably get going." They both stood. Vanessa wrapped her arms around Clint. He reciprocated. "I'm glad you're okay. I don't know what would have happened if you-"

"Don't say it", she whispered. They pulled away. "I'm not gone, Clint. Stay in touch, will you?"

Clint smiled. "I promise. If you're ever in D.C, come by."

"Will do", Vanessa said. She leaned over and kissed his cheek. "Be safe."

Clint grabbed his bag and walked out. He walked up the ramp of the plane and sat down. When the ramp rose, the plane took off.

 

Eight Hours Later...

 

Sam, Mack, and Coulson were playing cards and doing anything to pass the time. Daisy was sitting alone trying to fall asleep but failing. Clint took notice and walked over to her.

Daisy looked at the beer bottle Clint was offering. She took it with a weak smile. "Thanks."

"Yeah." Clint sat down and opened a bottle of his own. "Coulson told me what happened when you guys were escaping."

Daisy turned her head to look away from him. "Why would he say anything?"

"Because I understand that feeling."

Daisy snorted. "You mean the Ghost understands?"

"No, I mean I understand." Clint looked down at his bottle. "It's one of the harsh realities of war."

"I shot and killed a kid, Clint. Can you tell me what he was doing there", she almost yelled. She said it in more of a making a point fashion but was not expecting Clint to reply.

"Did he have his face covered?"

"Yes."

"Did he have a gun?"

"Yes."

"He was trying to fit in with them, Daisy. Kids are the most destructive weapons in war because no one expects them."

Daisy finally looked at him. Tears were flowing down her cheeks. Clint set his bottle down and grabbed hers and set it down. He wrapped his arms around her gently rubbed her back.

"How did you get over killing kids", Daisy asked softly.

"By realizing the world and the people in it suck", Clint replied.

Daisy laughed. She and Clint were still hugging. The two let go of one another. "That doesn't help", she said with a small smile.

"Are you sure? You're smiling."

Daisy continued to laugh. Mack, Coulson, and Sam walked over to join them. Each one had a beer in their hand. They each also had a napkin with things written on them.

"What does OSHERA mean", Mack asked.

"What", Clint asked.

"We have theories about what it means. What does it mean?"

Clint smirked. He knew they were drunk. He grabbed something to write on and started writing. He showed it to the group.

Osprey
Shrike
Hawk
Eagle
Raptor
Accipiter

They looked at him confused.

"Those are birds of prey. OSHERA was our call to action."

The three men crumpled their napkins and complained. Daisy and Clint only laughed.

 

Four Days Later...

 

Clint sat on the couch in his apartment with Natalie bouncing on his leg. The baby giggled making Clint smile. After getting back from Afghanistan, he wanted nothing more than to be with her.

He was expecting to have nightmares but nothing happened. Maybe he really did have peace. A peace he extended to his fallen brothers. He visited their graves right after he back.

After bouncing Natalie for a few minutes, Clint stood up and adjusted Natalie on his hip. He walked over to the kitchen counter and checked his phone. Nothing. Just twelve hours prior, New York was attacked again.

Clint thought he would get a call from Fury, or Natasha, or even Steve but it was silence. His concerns dissipated when Natalie started babbling. They reignited when he heard a car crash.

He placed Natalie in the high chair and ran to the balcony. He saw the accident. Then he heard people start to scream. When he looked around, he saw some people turn to dust.

Clint ran back inside and grabbed his phone. The first number he thought of was his boss. He listened to the ringing but Fury did not pick up. He ran back outside to see a helicopter crash into the street.

"What the hell just happened?"

Chapter 31: Endgame

"Someone tell me what happened", Clint yelled as he walked into the room full of analysts and agents.

"We don't know yet, Sir", an analyst supervisor said.

"Well find out", Clint said.

The agents and analysts continued working and trying to figure out what happened. The whole room was in complete chaos.

"What happened", Daisy asked as she ran into the room. She stood next to Clint.

"Don't know yet."

"I was talking to Jemma, turned for a moment and the next, she was gone. I tried calling her but no answer. I tried to look for Fitz and Mack but nothing. Have you been able to contact anyone? "

"No one has answered my calls. Not Fury, Coulson, Hill, or May."

"Does that mean you're-"

"The highest ranking SHIELD agent in the world? Yes."

Daisy looked at the different interactions occurring in the room. "Not how you wanted to become boss, huh?"

"I never wanted to be boss but no, this is not how I would've wanted it to come about."

"Sir, I found something", an analyst said.

Clint and Daisy walked over to the analyst. "What is it", Clint asked.

"A large energy surge was detected in Wakanda."

"Wakanda? Are you positive?"

"Yes, Sir."

Daisy looked at Clint and saw his pondering look. "What are you thinking", she asked.

Clint pulled out his phone. "I need to make a call." He walked away from them and to a more secluded portion of the room.

"How massive was the energy surge", Daisy asked.

"Very massive. It looks to be about a thousand times larger than any signature we have seen from Thor. It's like Earth became ground zero for something big."

"Fantastic", she said quietly. Daisy turned her head to look at Clint. The new boss slowly put his phone down. She walked over to him. "Who was on the other end?"

"Natasha."

"Is she okay?"

"Not even close. She called me nine hours ago telling me that Vision and Wanda were attacked. They went to Wakanda to get the stone removed from Vision's head but they were attacked."

"By who?"

"Thanos, a giant purple alien who collected all six infinity stones and wiped out half the universe."

Daisy felt her stomach drop. "Oh my god."

"She said that they needed all the help they could get. I just wanted some alone time with Natalie."

"Did SHIELD know?"

"I don't know." Clint looked at the room full of agents and analysts. "I need to know who all are still here." He looked back at Daisy. "Get me a head count all SHIELD agents around the world who are still alive."

"Yes, Sir." Daisy walked over to an open computer and started working on the new, temporary director's orders.

 

Five Years Later... At the Avengers Compound...

 

"We are getting the whole team, right", Tony asked.

"We're working on that right now", Steve replied.

 

* * * * * * * * * *

 

Natasha drove through the not so busy D.C streets. It was surprising to not see the streets bustling with life. She did not approve of the reason for the minimal traffic but she enjoyed not having to stop every five minutes.

She finally arrived at the apartment complex. Natasha rested her hands on the steering wheel and took a deep breath. Once she was composed enough, she got out of her car. Natasha walked up the stairs and stood outside the door.

Natasha slowly raised her hand and knocked on the door. She had no idea what she was going to say to the man she has not actually spoken to in years. Other than occasional updates from Daisy about Clint and Natalie, she had no idea how they were.

When the door opened, Natasha was not surprised to see Daisy standing there. The SHIELD agent gave her a weak smile and moved to let her inside.

"Auntie Nat", came the squeal of the young girl that Daisy was babysitting.

Natasha had no time to completely turn around before the six year old girl threw herself into Natasha's arms. The redhead smiled and held on to the girl tight. "Hey Nat", she whispered.

Natasha set the girl down. She could not help but stare at the young blonde girl who had a huge resemblance to her sister. Natalie smiled back at Natasha.

"What are you doing here, Auntie Nat?"

Natasha stroked the girl's hair. "I need to talk with Aunt Daisy."

"About daddy?"

Natasha saw the sparkle in Natalie's blue eyes at the mention of Clint. She smiled. "Yes."

Natalie did not say anything after that. She went to the living room to continue coloring in her coloring book. Natasha and Daisy walked to the kitchen so they would be out of ear shot of Natalie.

"You think I know where he is", Daisy asked.

"I know you do. Clint made you Deputy Director so you have to know where he is."

"He gave me that position to be a buffer between him and the other agents."

"Maybe so but I know you've been keeping tabs on him when he leaves alone. You know what the Ghost has been doing recently."

Daisy sighed. "Of course I do but what can I do? When he's the director, he does a good job. The other half takes over, I try to act as little as possible."

"And people start dying", Natasha said with a hint of sadness.

"What was it you were expecting to happen, Natasha? He shares his mind with one of the most dangerous killers the world has never seen."

"I know that Daisy but I have to find him."

"Why?"

"We may have found a way to bring everyone back."

Some hope sparked to life in Daisy. "Really?"

"It's just a working theory right now but yes. I had Rhodey try to track him but he lost Clint somewhere in Europe."

Daisy laughed lightly. "Rhodey isn't us."

Natasha returned the laugh. "No, he isn't."

Daisy looked at Natalie. "He's not the same person, Natasha."

"None of us are."

"That's not what I mean." She looked back at Natasha. "He's not the same person you knew. There's a reason I'm the buffer between him and the other agents. I can handle his unpredictable temper better than they could."

"How unpredictable is it?"

"The slightest thing can set him off now. I can't even tell the difference between Clint and the Ghost sometimes."

"I knew it was getting bad but I had no idea how bad."

"His obsession with finding Blood has also gotten worse. His office is covered in clues that have taken him all over the world."

Natasha looked at Natalie. "I really hate to ask this but is she safe here?"

Daisy looked at Natalie too. "She's the only reason Clint hasn't completely lost it. In the last three years, I've only seen him smile when with her."

Natasha looked at Daisy. "I need to know where he is, Daisy."

Daisy sighed. She grabbed her laptop and tapped some keys. "It looks like he is in Tokyo."

"Thank you." Natasha walked to the living room and kissed her niece before leaving.

 

Seven Hours Later...

 

"You shouldn't be here", Clint said. The rain was pouring down hard around them as Clint stood over the body of the Yakuza boss. His hand gripped the hilt of the sword tighter as the rain removed some the blood off the blade.

"Neither should you", Natasha replied. She held the umbrella over her head as she stared at the back of her friend. At least she hoped it was her friend and not the alter ego.

Clint slowly turned around to look at Natasha in the face. His longer hair drooping down slightly by the rain. He could feel the rain pouring down his face. Natasha was shocked and heart broken to see him like that.

The man in front of her was not the same one she knew, just like Daisy had said. Looking into his eyes, Natasha could see more than anger. It was guilt. Sadness. Pain. Regret. Natasha gulped. She had no idea how to help him.

 

The Next Day...

 

Clint stood in the middle of the wreckage of the Avengers Compound. His muscles were so weak that he could barely stand. His grip on his bow was also weak. Clint slowly spun around to take it all in.

His eyes locked in on Tony's body laying against a piece of debris. Some of the Avengers, including Steve and Rhodey, were crowded around him. Some of the other heroes were also around the dead man's body.

Clint turned away from them and walked away. He did not feel like interacting with anybody at the moment. The reversal snap clearly worked but Clint only had one person on his mind and it was not Yelena.

When he could not walk any further because of his sore muscles, he sat down on some rubble. His hand also gave out and the bow dropped to the ground. Clint put his face in his hands and let the tears he held back finally fall.

 

Two and a Half Hours Later...

 

Clint walked through the door to his apartment. His eyes were automatically locked on the two people hugging in the living room.

Yelena had her arms wrapped tightly around her six year old daughter. Natalie had her arms around her neck and her head buried in the crook of her mother's neck. Both of them had huge smiles on their faces.

"Daddy", the little girl yelled when she looked up.

Yelena unwrapped her arms from around Natale. The blonde girl ran over to Clint and jumped into his arms. Clint smiled as he held his daughter. Clint set her down just in time for Yelena to hug him tight.

"I've missed you so much", Clint whispered while chocking back his tears.

Yelena did not respond. She instead wrapped an arm around his neck and kissed him. A low moan escaped his mouth. It made Yelena smile. When they broke apart, Clint leaned his forehead against hers and smiled.

"Is Natasha okay", Yelena asked after a minute or two.

Clint pulled back to look Yelena in the eye. He could see a spark of hope in her eyes. A spark he now has to extinguish. He opened his mouth to answer but remembered Natalie was with them. Clint shut his mouth and closed his eyes.

That was all it took for Yelena to realize the answer to her question. Her eyes instantly filled with tears. Clint's eyes soon matched hers. Acting on instinct, Clint wrapped his arms around Yelena and let her cry into his shoulder. It was a feeling he never enjoyed.

Clint felt a small hand touch his leg. He looked down and made eye contact with the two blue irises of his daughter. He brought a hand down and started stroking her hair. Clint's other hand squeezed tighter on the small of Yelena's back as she continued to cry into his shoulder.

 

Four Days Later...

 

Yelena knelt down by the side of the gravestone with her sister's name on it and leaned her forehead against it. Clint was standing a few yards away while holding his mourning daughter.

An hour prior, everyone close to Natasha gathered under the cherry blossom trees to have a small funeral for their fallen friend. Before the small group of people left, Clint said goodbye to each of them. Yelena was in no mood to talk to anyone. Clint made sure no one bothered her.

Clint managed to get a quick second alone with Steve before saying goodbye. The World War II hero told Clint about his plan after returning the infinity stones. Clint was kind of upset about losing a third friend but understood why Steve wanted to do it.

"I hope you get what you're looking for", Clint said as he hugged Steve.

Now, Clint stood watching Yelena. He was swinging back and forth slowly hoping it would somehow soothe Natalie. The girl was clutching onto her father tightly and crying into his shoulder.

Ten or fifteen minutes passed and they were still there. Yelena had moved to be standing in front of the gravestone. Clint was still holding Natalie who had fallen asleep so he was stroking her hair softly.

Clint heard two pairs of footsteps behind him. They were quiet even for being in the woods. He would have been concerned but he knew who the two people were. They walked passed him and went to Yelena. Clint smiled because he knew they would be able to help her heal in a way he could not.

Notes:

Sorry this chapter was shorter than my previous ones. This one just had to be written. Based on my notes, the next chapter may also be short but I will try to make it longer than this one.

Chapter 32: Responsibility

Notes:

There was a lot I could have done with Wandavision and Falcon and the Winter Soldier but I decided to do this. I will be very distracted this week, so I don't know when the next chapter will be out but I promise it will be worth it.

"The Avengers are no more", Fury said as he stood in his office looking out the window. "And the world is in chaos."

Coulson stared at his superior. "Three of them are gone", he said as if he was still trying to convince himself of it all.

Fury turned away from the window. "I fear SHIELD alone cannot handle this."

"Are you thinking it's time?"

Fury sat down at his desk and looked at Coulson. "File 32?"

Coulson nodded.

Fury sighed. "I do think it's time. There's just one problem."

"Barton isn't ready", Coulson said to complete Fury's thought.

Fury nodded. "The underworld has been severely fractured by a man in a black and gold suit that they call the Ronin. He cut down major organizations to double and single digits. That's including Poseidon's Blood."

"Are you saying he's unfit to lead the team?"

"He's unfit to be in the field. Add Romanov's death to the mix and we have an unstable ticking time bomb. Again."

"So, what do you want to do? The world needs to be put back in order."

"For now, SHIELD will have to handle it. I've ordered Barton to take some time off."

"Is he still your top pick to lead the team?"

"He's been my only pick."

 

Three Months Later...

 

Yelena softly stroked Clint's cheek with her thumb. She quietly admired his peaceful face. She did not want to disrupt his slumber. Sleep no longer came easy to him. It did not come easy before, but it was much harder and Yelena knows it. She did not want, was hoping not, to wake him up since he was finally sleeping.

The last five years really tore him apart and she knew it. He was upfront with her about what he did. Yelena was shocked but understanding. She knows that what he had done was a major contribution but Yelena knows the cause, the real cause to Clint's lack of sleep, Natasha's death.

Clint stirred slightly which made Yelena stop stroking his cheek. When he settled, she got back to stroking his cheek. As hurt as she was about losing Natasha, she could not imagine what Clint was going through in his mind.

About a month back, Clint finally opened up about his nightmares. Yelena did not know how to respond to him. Every night, he would be back on Vormir, back to hanging over the side of the cliff, and back to holding his best friend's wrist. Then watching her fall.

Once again, Clint started to stir. This time he did wake. Yelena did not stop stroking his cheek but only slowed the motion. Clint rubbed his eyes before focusing his gaze on Yelena. The two smiled at each other.

"I have to get ready", he said in a scruffy voice.

Yelena leaned her head against his. "I know. Just let me enjoy this for a minute." Yelena tilted her head to kiss his forehead.

The two spent a few minutes in each others arms before Clint got ready to leave for the Triskelion. It was his first day back to SHIELD since the reversal snap. He completely understood Fury's decision but he felt it to be unnecessary. After a quick shower and putting on his uniform, he left the apartment.

 

Four Hours Later...

 

Clint slowly spun around in the chair behind his desk. He covered his face with his hands and sighed. He was incredibly bored out of his mind. Clint looked at everything on his desk and picked up one of the papers.

Fury only gave Clint one job, oversee anything that has to do with the Avengers Compound. Clint tried to fight the order but Fury won in the end. The mere mention of the Ghost was enough to make Clint back off.

He would feel better if Yelena was with him but they agreed that she should stay with Natalie for a little while longer. Fury agreed to it by saying she could take as much time off as she needed.

Clint put the paper back down on his desk. If he was being honest, there are only two objects he cared about finding in the wreckage. Shortly after the battle ended, Clint realized he lost the sword and suit somewhere in the mess.

He knows SHIELD and Stark Industries are still going through the wreckage but he was hoping the sword and suit would have been found already. He cannot even begin to imagine the damage that could be done.

Clint was pulled out of his thoughts when his phone buzzed. He picked it up and read the text from Yelena. Clint pulled up the news on his computer just as she said to do and was astonished.

Clint watched Sam hand the shield over to the man in a suit and tie. The man then handed the shield over two men wearing white gloves. They carefully placed the shield inside the glass case.

Clint shook his head. "Aw, Sam. What have you done?"

He watched the rest of the news coverage on it before shutting off his computer. He could not believe it. His first instinct was to call Sam for some explanation but decided against it. Clint knows Sam had the ability to do whatever he wanted with it but he was still shocked Sam just gave it to the government.

His phone buzzed again. He thought it was going to be Yelena again but it turned out to be Fury. Clint got to his feet after reading the urgent, or rather, demanding, text and went to the elevator.

The elevator hit the top floor and Clint stepped off. He made the short walk to the director's office but stopped when he saw two Secret Service agents standing outside the door.

The two men checked Clint's badge before allowing him to enter. Clint immediately took notice of the four other agents in the room. Also in the office were Fury, Secretary Ross, and the President.

"Sir", Clint said.

Three of the most powerful men in the world stopped their conversation and looked at Clint. He walked over to them.

"Thank you for joining us, Agent Barton", Secretary Ross said.

"Of course, Sir." Clint looked at the President. "Mr. President."

"Thank you for coming."

Clint nodded to him. "What is this about", Clint asked looking at Fury.

Before Fury could speak, Secretary Ross spoke first. "Wanda Maximoff."

Clint sighed. "You're here because of what happened in Westview?"

"They are", Fury said looking at Ross with slight annoyance. "They want to know everything you know."

Clint chuckled with more annoyance than Fury showed. "I don't know anything."

"You and Ms. Maximoff were friends, were you not", Ross asked.

"We are. It doesn't mean I know anything. Even if I did, I wouldn't say anything to you." Clint looked at Fury before turning around and walked to the door.

"Wanda Maximoff is dangerous", Ross said.

That made Clint stop dead in his tracks. He was inches away from the door. Clint slowly turned around and walked toward Ross. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw two of the agents put their hands on their guns.

Clint stopped about three feet away from Ross. "You have no idea just how dangerous she is", he growled.

"Take a step back, Agent Barton", Ross said calmly.

"You have a responsibility to your country", the President said. "Not to mention, the world."

Clint looked at the President. "I am well aware of my responsibility. I've been aware since I was 18."

"She's a threat to our country and the world", Ross said.

"She's just a kid", Clint yelled. The four agents pulled out their guns. Clint did not react. "Wanda has lost so much. What she did, she did because she was in pain."

"We all lost something for those five years", the President said.

"Not like her. What we lost, we got back." Clint eyed Fury. "For the most part anyway." Fury sighed and looked down.

"Just because she's lost people doesn't mean she has the right to keep a small town hostage", the President said.

Clint looked at him. "Then maybe you should have ordered SHIELD to handle it instead of SWORD. Much of what happened could've been avoided."

The President looked at Fury. "Are you going to allow your agent to speak to me like that?"

Fury looked between the President and Clint. "Yes, Sir. I will. Agent Barton took the role of director when I disappeared. Before that, he was the bridge between SHIELD and the Avengers. If a situation occurs involving an Avenger, I look to him to handle it. He's earned the right to speak his mind."

A small smile appeared on Clint's face at his director's words.

The President sighed. "You're right. I was wrong to send SWORD." He turned to Clint. "If you do make contact with Wanda Maximoff, at least inform Director Fury."

Clint did not respond. He turned around and walked out of the office. The Secret Service agents holstered their guns as soon as Clint left.

Clint walked out of the elevator as soon as the door opened. He walked to his office and closed the door behind him. When he sat down, he became overwhelmed. It was not all the papers on his desk but rather what had just happened.

After their short talk by the lake, Clint would occasionally think about Wanda. She had cut herself off from the rest of the world shortly after Tony's funeral, so he had no way of contacting her. Then Westview happened and Clint could not stop his guilt.

He felt responsible for her after her brother died. He checked up on her whenever he was in New York and if he was gone, Natasha would look out for her. Finding out about Westview made him feel guilty because he never thought about trying harder to reach out to her. He got too invested in having Yelena back.

Looking at everything on the desk, Clint felt he did not have the mental capacity to work. Clint packed up the few things he needed and left the Triskelion. He only ran into May on his way out but she did not ask any questions about him leaving.

Clint drove through the bustling D.C streets. His mind was so distracted by Wanda. He was also distracted by Sam handing over the shield to the government. When he stopped at a red light, Clint leaned his head back and closed his eyes.

"Everyone has gone off the deep end", he muttered. He looked at himself in the rearview mirror. "Even me."

Clint finally arrived at his apartment. He walked up the stairs and to his door. Clint unlocked the door and walked inside. He was instantly met by squealing from his daughter. He crouched down and caught the running girl.

Natalie laughed as Clint spun her around in his arms. She wrapped her arms around his neck and laid her head on his shoulder. Clint kissed her head.

Natalie was not the only one to greet him. Not a second later, Clint heard the sound of paws against hardwood floor. Fanny, their newest family member, came out from the hallway and sat at Clint's feet. She wagged her tail while looking up at him. Clint chuckled softly and scratched Fanny behind the ear.

They got Fanny about a month ago. Natalie was bothering them constantly about getting a dog. Clint was skeptical but Yelena jumped on board with Natalie right away. He knew he stood no chance going against them. He agreed on the condition that he gets to name the dog. Plus, a dog could help his PTSD.

"Where's your mama", Clint asked.

"In the bedroom", the almost seven year old replied.

Clint kissed her cheek before setting her down next to Fanny. Natalie went to the living room followed closely by Fanny. Clint smiled at them before going to the bedroom. He stood by the door frame and looked inside.

Yelena was sitting on the edge of the bed with a picture frame in her hand. Clint didn't say a word. He walked into the room and sat next to her. Clint looked at the picture of Yelena and Natasha. The blonde woman looked at Clint and his heart broke.

Yelena's eyes were red and puffy. Clint could see dried tear stains on her cheeks. He had no idea what to say so he instead wrapped his arms around her and pulled her against his chest. Yelena did not even try to hold back the tears. She started crying into his chest.

Clint held Yelena like that for maybe ten minutes, he was not keeping track. Yelena's tears finally subsided. Once she was able to compose herself, she cleaned herself up so she would not scare or concern Natalie.

The three, plus Fanny, spent the rest of the day on the couch watching movies. It was exactly the distraction Clint needed from his terrible first day back.

 

Hours Later...

 

Clint and Yelena were still on the couch but it was just the two of them. Clint put Natalie to bed a few hours prior and Fanny liked to sleep next to her bed. That left just the two of them and the news. It was still talking about Sam giving away the shield.

Clint clenched his fist when Sam let go of the shield. He does not know why he keeps watching it but he force himself to change the channel. The screen suddenly went black. Clint turned his head to see Yelena set the remote down on the coffee table.

"You're only beating yourself up by watching that over and over", Yelena said.

Clint sighed. He ran his hand through his hair. "I know." He got up and followed Yelena to the kitchen. She started to wash the dishes from dinner. "I can't believe he gave it away."

"Neither can I but there is nothing we can do. It was his choice to make."

"Yeah. I just wish I could've spoken with him before he did that."

Yelena snorted. "And have said what? Would have tried to convince him to be the next Captain America?"

"Maybe. Or at least convince him to keep the damn thing."

Yelena looked at him. She could see the genuine hurt in his eyes. "What Sam did isn't the only thing upsetting you, is it?"

Clint stayed silent for a moment. He shook his head. "It's not. Fury called me into his office and with him were Secretary Ross and the President."

Yelena stopped what she was doing, dried her hands, and walked over to him. "What did they want?"

"They asked about Wanda and if I knew anything."

"What did you say?"

"The truth, I didn't know anything. I haven't spoken to her since Tony's funeral."

"Did they push?"

"No. Fury shut them down pretty quick." Clint turned his head to look away from her.

Yelena grabbed his hand and squeezed it. "What she did was not your fault, Clint. She made her own decisions."

Clint looked at her again. "Well I didn't exactly try to help, did I?" They stayed silent for a moment. "I didn't make the wisest decisions when I lost you so I know what she's going through. The only difference is that Vision can't come back."

Yelena could not think of anything to say so she just closed the distance between them. She tightly wrapped her arms around Clint's chest. Clint reciprocated the hug. His grip was just as tight as hers.

 

The Next Morning...

 

Yelena nuzzled her nose against Clint's cheek as she climbed into his lap. Clint smiled as his hands wandered down her body. Yelena's hands went down to the hem of his shirt. She started kissing his neck.

"You sure we should do this with Natalie across the hall", Clint managed to ask even though Yelena was attacking his neck with kisses.

Yelena leaned in close to Clint's ear. "Do you want me stop", she whispered seductively.

Clint closed his eyes to the feeling of her hands gliding under his shirt. "Hell no", he moaned.

Yelena smiled and hummed as she continued to kiss him.

Thirty minutes later, Yelena walked out of the bedroom. She had a slight limp but it was not noticeable. She had a stupid smile on her face as she walked into the kitchen. She saw Natalie in the living room watching TV.

"Come get your breakfast, Nat", Yelena said to Natalie.

The girl got off the couch and walked over to the kitchen counter. "Thank you, mama."

Yelena put the bowl of cereal down in front of her daughter. "You're welcome, baby", she said before kissing her head.

Clint walked into the kitchen. He was in a jacket and sweat pants. "You want your usual?"

"Yes", Yelena replied.

Clint kissed her and kissed Natalie's cheek before walking to the door. "Come on, Fanny", he said as he grabbed a leash. Fanny walked over to him.

 

Thirty Minutes Later...

 

Clint walked down the sidewalk with Fanny in front of him by two feet. They crossed an intersection before stopping at a cafe. He and Yelena liked to get breakfast from the cafe sometimes whenever one of them walked Fanny.

Clint took a seat at one of the tables on the patio. Fanny sat down next to his chair and looked at all the people. Clint ordered what he and Yelena wanted and also looked around. For a different reason of course. His eyes were on every person that walked by him. His secret agent side always on overdrive when around large crowds and open areas.

"Has anyone ever told you it's creepy to watch people", a female voice with an accent said.

Clint froze when she spoke because he knew who the voice belonged to and she managed to sneak up on him. Clint slowly turned his head to look at the young woman. "It's in my job description to watch people." He took in her attire. Boots, jeans, a baggy jacket, and a cap. "Care to join me?"

She took a seat across from Clint. Fanny walked over to her and sniffed the new person. She began petting Fanny. "What's her name?"

Clint smiled. "Fanny. We got her a month ago."

"Why Fanny?"

"It's one of Natasha's old cover names that I had come up with."

She quirked her brow. "Seriously?"

"Yeah." Clint looked at the three men who just walked past him. His hand resting on the gun concealed in his pants. "What are you doing here, Wanda? You know it's not safe for you to be here."

"I know."

"Then why are you here?"

"To explain myself."

"You don't need to do that, Wanda. I understand why you did it."

"You do?"

Clint nodded. "Grief makes us do stupid things when we are in control. It's much worse when we can't control our minds."

Wanda nodded slowly. "I'm sorry, Clint. I failed you."

"No, you didn't."

Before they could continue their conversation, whispers and talking erupted among groups around the cafe. Clint and Wanda looked around. They saw people looking at their phones and laptops. Clint handed Fanny's leash to Wanda and walked over to a small group huddled around a laptop.

"Cap is back", the female news reporter said with a cheerful smile.

Clint's eyes widened at what he just heard. He watched the video of the man in a blue and red suit wave to the crowd. However, Clint's focus was on the shield that the new "Captain America" was holding.

"Dammit."

Notes:

Comment yes or no if you want Doctor Strange MoM to make a mention later in the story. I've been going back and forth with having it happen at all, so, I'll just ask what all of you want to happen.

Chapter 33: Semper Fidelis

Clint sighed as he turned away from the group. He was trying to wrap his mind around it. There is a new Captain America. He walked back to his table and noticed Fanny's leash tied to one of the leg's of the table. Wanda was nowhere to be seen.

He looked in every direction but he could not see her. The waitress walked over to him and handed him his order. Clint untied Fanny's leash and the two went back to the apartment.

When they arrived, Clint handed Yelena the bags from the cafe. It did not take her long to see something was wrong. Clint walked to the bedroom. He sat down on the edge of the bed and began thinking.

He was in no way expecting to see Wanda at all but when he did, he could see the hurt in her eyes. He could tell she was sincere about her apology but something else was there. Something he did not want to accept.

Natalie peeked her head out from behind the wall. Clint saw her and smiled. She returned the smile and walked into the room. Clint lifted her into his arms to sit in his lap. He placed a soft kiss on her head. She leaned into his chest. He wrapped his arms around her and placed his cheek on her head and hummed.

The pair sat there for a few minutes. Natalie had slowly fallen asleep in her father's arms. Clint carefully stood up, adjusting Natalie accordingly, and walked back to the living room.

He carefully sat down on the couch and laid Natalie down next to him. Her head resting on a pillow and her feet right against his leg. Yelena walked into the living room from the kitchen with two plates in her hands. She handed one to Clint.

The two quietly ate their breakfast while Natalie slept next to them. Fanny sat on the floor in between Clint's legs waiting, and hoping, for one of them to drop a crumb or two. He felt sad for the dog, so he gave her some.

Over the next hour or so, Clint quietly explained everything to Yelena about what happened with Wanda. At one point, Natalie woke up and moved to be in between the two adults. However, she favored snuggling against Yelena's side.

Clint's phone started buzzing on the table. He picked it up and read 'Restricted' on the caller ID. It was not strange for him to get calls like this given his job so he did not hesitate to answer.

After a few seconds of listening, Clint stood from the couch and walked to the bedroom. He was still on the phone. Yelena watched him as he left the room. Her concern grew when she heard the door close.

He came back into the living room thirty minutes later. He was freshly showered and dressed. Now Yelena was very confused. She stood up and walked over to him.

"What is going on", she asked.

Clint grabbed his keys. "That was General Williams. He said that..." Clint closed his eyes and sighed. He opened his eyes and a tear streamed down his cheek. "He said that Vanessa was killed yesterday."

"Oh, Clint. I'm sorry." Yelena grabbed his hand but he slowly pulled it away.

"I'm going to the Triskelion. I want to read the report."

"Are you sure that is a good idea?"

"No, but I want to know how it happened. And see if the police have caught whoever did it." Clint walked over to Natalie, kissed her cheek, and walked back to Yelena. "I'll keep you updated", he said before kissing her and walking out.

 

At the Triskelion...

 

Clint could not hold back his tears as he read through the police report on Vanessa's death. Every line made him brake more and more to the point where he had to stop reading it altogether. He felt like he just lost a part of his heart.

As sad and heartbroken as he was, one thing kept appearing in his mind, the medical examiner's report. Clint looked at the report again and read it very carefully. The cause of death puzzled him.

He looked up at the door when he heard someone knock. Daisy walked into Clint's office with a sad look on her face. The face told Clint that Yelena told Daisy what had happened.

"Yelena told you Vanessa was killed, didn't she?"

Daisy nodded. "How are you doing?"

"Not good. And this M.E report isn't helping."

"Then why are you reading it?"

"Because I have to know how it happened but there are some contingencies."

"Like what", Daisy asked as she walked over to him and began reading the report.

"Burns on her body. The examiner can't explain the cause of them."

Daisy quirked her brow. "How bad were the burns?"

"That's the thing, they weren't fire burns. They're described more as burns that went through her body and cauterized instantly."

"That sounds like the blaster bolts from Blood rifles."

Clint looked at her. "I know. That's why there are no suspects and known cause of death. The burns are the cause."

"Maybe we need to go to there and investigate. We can find things they missed."

"We", Clint asked both surprised and intrigued.

"You think I would let you do this alone? Yeah, I'm coming with you."

Clint sighed. He knew there was no sense in fighting. "Fine. Get a jet ready. I'll tell Lena we're leaving."

Daisy smirked. "Yes, Sir."

LOCATION: San Francisco, California
TIME: 16:29

They arrived in San Francisco and their first stop was the medical examiner's office to speak with whoever did the autopsy. They walked inside the building and went to the examiner's office.

Upon arrival at the office, the two SHIELD agents saw an NCIS special agent speaking to the examiner. Daisy quirked her brow and looked at Clint who had a determined look on his face.

The examiner looked at the two agents. "Can I help you?"

"I'm Agent Clint Barton. This is my partner, Agent Daisy Johnson. We wish to speak with you about Lieutenant Vanessa Wolfe's body."

"What organization are you with", the examiner asked.

"SHIELD", Daisy said.

The examiner was about to reply but the NCIS agent spoke first. "My name is Special Agent Jordan Maxwell. I'm with NCIS. That stands for-"

"I know what it stands for. I'm a Marine. That's why I'm here. I knew Lieutenant Wolfe."

The NCIS agent's entire demeanor changed. "Oh, I'm sorry for your loss."

"Are you the agent assigned her case", Daisy asked.

"I was."

"What does that mean", Clint asked.

"The case was closed about an hour ago. No suspects, no evidence, no witnesses. Even the crime scene was clean besides the body. We have nothing to work from."

Clint was about to reply but his eyes were drawn passed the two men and to a body, covered by a white tarp, in a room at the end of the hall. "Is that her?"

The other three looked to where Clint was staring. "Yes", the examiner said. "Would you like to see her?"

Clint did not answer. He walked passed them and to the room. The medical examiner was right behind him. Special Agent Maxwell looked back at Daisy and smiled.

"So, how long have you been with SHIELD?"

Daisy, knowing what he was trying to do, rolled her eyes and walked to the room. Special Agent Maxwell turned around and walked to the room too.

Daisy, Special Agent Maxwell, and the examiner watched Clint slowly pull the tarp back from the head of the body. Only Daisy saw Clint freeze when he saw the face of his friend.

Clint stared at the face of his now dead friend. It took all his strength to hold back his tears. He slowly brought his shaking hand up to her hair and started stroking it with his thumb. He felt his heart brake into pieces.

All he wanted was for this to be a bad dream, but he knew it was not so. He was all too familiar with this feeling of defeat. He bent down to be at level with her ear. While still stroking her hair, he continuously whispered 'I'm sorry' in her ear.

Feeling so defeated, so distraught, he could not hold back his tears any longer. He leaned his forehead against her forehead and softly cried. He did not know why but he was still whispering apologies to her as if she could hear.

After a minute or so, the tears subsided. Clint kissed her forehead softly. Daisy noticed him whisper one more thing in her ear. She heard him apologize over and over but she did not hear whatever he just said.

Clint rose from his position and turned around. His sadness was replaced by anger and hate. Daisy's body instantly filled with fear when she saw his face. It was a face of a man wanting answers. A man out for blood. The face of the Ghost.

"We need everything you have on the case", Clint said.

Special Agent Maxwell smiled. "I'm sorry but my boss won't allow that."

Clint stepped closer to him. "I don't give a fuck what your boss allows. Either give my partner all the information of the case or I will make your life a living hell", Clint gritted through his teeth.

Special Agent Maxwell gulped. "Let me make a few calls." He pulled out his phone and walked away.

Clint turned to face the other two. Daisy gulped too. "I will get the information from the M.E", she said.

Clint nodded then walked away from them.

 

One Hour Later...

 

Clint parked the rental car outside the house. When they stepped out, they saw the crime scene tape still around the house. Daisy looked at Clint.

"You sure about this? They didn't find a single thing."

"I'm sure."

Clint walked to the house and ducked under the tape. Daisy followed him to the house. Clint cut the tape and paper on the door and opened it. Expecting to see a complete mess, they were surprised to see it in pristine condition.

"Okay, this is odd", Daisy said.

The two agents spent the next few hours looking for any clues. Luck was not on their side. Daisy had given up and sat down on the couch. The scene was already closed so it did not matter. Clint, however, continued to look around.

He spent a lot of time staring at photos she had around the house. Some of them were of the two of them from the old days. His eyes, though, would only be on her.

"Clint, NCIS swept this place top to bottom and then we did. There's nothing here."

"If there's one thing you and NCIS didn't do, is serve with her." Clint walked over to the bookshelf and looked at it. "During our second tour, she was convinced that someone was stealing her stuff. So, she hid a small camera where no one could see it or find it even if they looked." Clint noticed a small black dot. "That's my girl", he whispered. He began removing books.

Daisy stood from the couch. "What did you find?"

"A camera."

Daisy walked over to Clint and helped him remove the books. "Seriously?"

Clint smirked. "Never mess with a Marine."

"I'll grab my computer." Daisy went outside to the car and came back inside with her computer.

Clint watched Daisy set up the camera footage. She backed it up and played it. They watched it and it became horrifying.

The Blood agents barged into the house, surprising Vanessa. At first, she was able to fight back but they got the upper hand. Some of them punched and kicked her.

Clint became too overwhelmed to continue watching it so he walked away. Daisy watched him walk out the front door and fall to his knees. She wanted to go console him but something in the video caught his attention.

She paused the video and went outside. Daisy crouched down and put her hand on his shoulder. She was about to speak but Clint was first.

"You were right. Blood killed her."

"I'm so sorry, Clint. I was hoping I was wrong." They sat in silence for a moment. "I found something you're going to want to see."

Clint looked at her. "What is it?"

Instead of answering, Daisy put the computer in front of Clint. She played the video.

Two Blood agents held Vanessa up by her arms. She was on her knees, breathing hard, and bloody, and sweaty. Two more agents walked inside the house followed by an older woman with a purple streak in her hair.

"I'm impressed. Not many people can fight my agents. I see why you and Clint Barton are friends."

"Who are you?"

"My name is Valentina Allegra de Fontaine. I run the organization that employs these men."

"What do you want with me?"

"Nothing. You're just an unfortunate message to Clint Barton. There's a price to pay to be his friend."

"What do you want with Clint?"

Valentina smirked and turned to an agent next to her. "Kill her." She walked to the door.

"What do you want with Clint", Vanessa yelled again.

The Blood agent raised his gun and aimed at her. Vanessa scowled at him.

Daisy paused it. "Valentina was here."

"Of course she was. If it's going to hurt me, she wants to be there for it." Clint stood up.

Daisy stood up too. "What now?"

"We go home. I got what I wanted", he said defeated.

 

One Week Later...

 

Clint stood in the command center that was stationed just outside of the Avengers Compound wreckage. Since Fury gave him this job, it meant he would sometimes have to be in New York. Plus, it was a good distraction from Poseidon's Blood.

Walking around him were SHIELD agents, Stark Industries employees, construction workers, and DODC employees. All of them were involved with the Compound reconstruction; after it gets cleared out.

Since Clint was put in charge of it all, he had to be made informed of everyone on the site. He also had to be informed of all artifacts and weapons found.

"Agent Barton", a SHIELD agent said.

Clint turned to look at him. "What is it?"

"Someone is trying to get access to the site."

"Who?"

"A Sam Wilson", the agent said looking at his tablet.

Clint rolled his eyes. He hates working with rookie agents, besides Yelena at the time. "Let him in and bring him here."

"Yes, Sir."

A few minutes later, the agent walked into the command center with Sam right behind him. Sam was required to where a visitor's badge even though everyone practically knows who he is.

"Sam Wilson", Clint said with a happy smile.

Sam smiled back. "Hey, Clint."

The two embraced each other. They have not seen each other since Natasha's funeral. They only had brief texts back and forth to check up but nothing more.

"It's really good to see you", Clint said when they broke apart. He completely ignored wanting to know how Sam knew he was in New York.

"You too, Clint. You look good."

Clint looked around. "Let's take a walk. I have to get out of this tent."

The two walked out of the command center and walked around the wreckage. Clint filled Sam in on everything that had happened. Not much actually happened but Sam wanted to know.

"Last week really screwed me up though", Clint said quietly.

"What happened?"

Clint took a second. "Vanessa was murdered."

"Ah, damn, Clint. I'm so sorry."

Clint shook his head. He gave Sam a smirk. "For what? That's just how it goes, right? I lose people I care about who aren't Avengers? She died because of me."

"Poseidon's Blood killed her?"

Clint nodded. "Probably a retaliation hit for what I did during the five years." Clint and Sam stopped walking. "I never even thought about how she would be a target."

"When's the funeral?"

"Two days. I was asked to be a pallbearer."

"Are you going to go?"

Clint sighed. "I don't know. Her whole family is going to be there. I don't think I can face them."

"Clint, the only person they're going to see is the best friend and the man who saved her life. Had it not been for you, they would have buried her years ago."

Clint looked at Sam. "And what if you're wrong?"

"You won't know unless you go."

Clint nodded to him. "Thanks, Sam."

The two started walking back to the command center.

"I saw the news about what John Walker did", Clint said. "Where's the shield?"

"Bucky and I got it back."

"Good. It doesn't belong in Walker's hands. Or the government's for that matter."

Sam chuckled. "I'm still deciding what to do."

"Mind if I weigh in?"

Sam sighed. "Why not? Everyone else has."

"I'm not going to say whether or not you should be Captain America. I'm just going to say that Steve picked you for a reason, but it's ultimately your decision."

"If you were to pick a side?"

"I think you would represent the shield perfectly. Even in ways that Steve could not. But, there's a heavy burden that comes with it. So, if you decide to remain as Falcon, then I will have your back."

By then, the two had made it back to the command center. The agent who escorted Sam walked back to the two.

"Good luck, Sam." Clint hugged his friend.

"You too, Clint. Let me know about the funeral."

The two released. "Will do." Clint watched Sam begin to walk away. "Hey, Sam."

Sam turned around. "Yeah?"

"If you decide not to take up the mantle, bring the shield to me."

"I'm not handing it to Fury."

"Honestly, neither would I. Pepper and I want to make a memorial in the entrance once it's rebuilt. The shield would look better here than with the government."

Sam smiled. "I will keep that in mind."

Clint focused back on his work. He let out a long sigh. The site was a long way from being rebuilt. Worse, the sword and suit still have not been found.

 

Early the next morning...

 

Clint's phone buzzed to life on the night stand. Clint quickly reached over to turn it off so it would not wake up Yelena. He picked it up and read the messages from Daisy.

Clint got out of bed and put on some clothes. Daisy's text ignited an anger inside of him. Daisy found the hiding place of the Poseidon's Blood team that killed Vanessa and she sent Clint their coordinates.

He drove to the Triskelion and went to his office. Daisy was already standing there with a tablet.

"I didn't know you worked this early", Clint said.

"Fury hasn't had me do much so I had some time."

"Well, thanks for finding them."

"I'll get one of the teams together."

"No need. I'll handle it."

"That's not a good idea."

Clint stopped what he was doing. He stared her right in the eye. "What", he gritted through his teeth.

Daisy gulped. "I said it's not a good idea, Clint."

"And why not?" He started walking to the door.

Daisy stepped in his path. "You really wanna know?"

Clint scowled at her. "Tell me."

"For five years, I watched the Ghost kill. I watched him lead SHIELD. I could never tell the difference between you two. And for five years, I watched your daughter grow up. She ran into your arms and I never knew who it was. The Ghost has had enough of a reign."

Clint took a second to think about what she said. He took a deep breath. "I'm going to show Valentina something I've denied for too long."

"What?"

"The Ghost and I are one in the same. Now move."

Daisy slowly stepped back and out of his way. She did it while maintaining eye contact until he passed her.

 

Hours Later...

 

Clint walked down one of the streets in San Francisco. His eyes were darting to the garage that was next to an alley. He walked up and down that sidewalk multiple times.

He finally crossed the street to stand in front of the garage door. He pulled an arrowhead out of his pocket and planted it on the door. He walked to the alley and pulled out his gun.

"No one is walking out of there", he said quietly.

BOOM

Clint walked through the hole the explosion created in the garage door. The agents were very disoriented. Clint fired his gun and killed the first few. The remaining agents managed to regain themselves.

Two agents ran at him. Clint dodged the attacks and killed them. He stared at another agent that was holding an electric staff. Without warning, the agent ran at Clint, but Clint was too fast.

Clint dodged the swing and hit the guy in the chest. He then grabbed the agent's arm and broke it. The agent screamed in pain. Clint grabbed the agent's knife and plunged it into the agent's neck. The body dropped to the floor.

The last five agents, all with electric staffs, attacked Clint. It took him no time to drop them. He killed four of them in the most inhumane ways possible.

The last agent tried to crawl away but Clint grabbed him and pulled him up to be on his knees. Clint put the gun under the agent's chin.

"Did you even know her name", Clint asked angrily.

"What", the agent asked.

"Did you know her name", he asked again. His anger rising every second.

"No. We're given a target then we take it out."

Clint's anger caused him to start shaking. "She is not an it. Her name is Lieutenant Vanessa Wolfe of the United States Marine Corps. She will be remembered that way."

Before the agent could reply. Clint pulled the trigger and killed the agent. Clint heard sirens getting close so he ran out of the garage.

Unbeknownst to Clint, Daisy had scrambled the security camera footage from around the area. She may have disagreed with his actions but she understood his reasons for them.

Clint returned to D.C six hours after that. He returned to the Triskelion to get some work done. After that, he drove home. Clint stopped at a red light four blocks away from the apartment.

"So, you've finally accepted it", said a voice next to Clint. He turned his head to see... himself. Again. "You and I are the same."

Clint did not have any anger or hate though. "We had an agreement. What do you want?"

The Ghost smiled. "Nothing. I finally got what I wanted."

A car honking behind Clint made him look back to the road. He noticed the light turned green. He stepped on the gas and finished the drive home.

When Clint arrived at his apartment, he saw Natalie playing with Daisy on the floor. Yelena was on the couch reading a book with Fanny's head resting on her leg. They looked at him when he walked inside.

Clint walked over to the couch, kissed Yelena, and walked back to the bedroom. When he came back out, he was dressed in comfortable clothes.

"How'd it go", Daisy asked. She already told Yelena everything he did.

"Just fine", he replied. He played it more casual because Natalie moved to sit on his lap. "I did what I had to do."

Daisy and Yelena shared a glance.

"Daddy, look", Natalie said pointing to the TV.

The three adults looked to the TV screen and saw Sam, dressed in a red, white, and blue suit, giving a speech to the GRC leaders.

"He looks good", Daisy said.

"The world has a new Captain America", Yelena said.

A small smile appeared on Clint's face. "Good work, buddy", he said silently.

 

The Next Day... at the Arlington National Cemetery...

 

The whole area was silent besides the faint sounds of cars some distance away. Light gray stones, all in rows, surrounded them. Seven Marines stood a short distance away from everyone else.

They all fired once.

And again.

And for a third and final time.

Silence again took over. Clint and one other Marine that he and Vanessa served with silently walked to the casket. One stood at one end and the other at the other end.

The grabbed the corners of the flag and lifted it from the casket. Two seconds later, a Marine started playing the bugle. Clint and the other Marine stood there without moving while the music played.

When the bugle stopped, Clint and the other Marine moved to stand in front of the casket and folded the flag. The Marine saluted the flag in Clint's hands before turning and marching away.

Clint walked two feet and knelt down in front of Vanessa's parents. He held the flag out. One hand on top, the other on the bottom.

"On behalf of the President of the United States, the United States Marine Corps, and a grateful nation, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciation for your loved ones honorable and faithful service."

Clint slowly stood up. He slowly brought his hand up to salute the flag.

Chapter 34: Another Ghost

Clint watched as the construction workers started to put the finishing touches in the room they were standing in. Most of the building was complete. All that was left were the final touches.

Reconstruction started about nine months prior. Fury ordered a rush job which is why they are as far as they are. Most of the wreckage from the original compound was cleaned but some of it was still present.

The progress, however, saddened Clint. The suit and sword still have not been found and his fears were beyond troubling.

To make his already hurt and depressed feelings worse, he and Yelena had a fight just before she left on a mission. He said some things that he really regrets saying bu he has not had the chance to apologize.

 

Two Weeks Ago...

 

Clint looked through the files he had on the coffee table on his apartment. There were four other boxes on the floor that he had to go through. All the files were of Poseidon's Blood missions and information.

He decided to go all the way back to the beginning. He looked through everything, hoping to find something he may have missed. Ever since Vanessa's death, this has been his focus minus whenever he has to be in New York.

The door opened and Natalie came running inside. Yelena and Fanny were right behind the young girl. Natalie ran over to where Clint was sitting and threw herself into his arms.

Clint smiled and laughed. He lifted her up to sit in his lap. He kissed her cheek. Yelena walked over and kissed Clint. Her eyes drifted to the files and then she turned away.

The two of them have not exactly been on the same page since Vanessa was killed. It was deeply upsetting to him. Clint focused his attention back on Natalie when she moved to be more comfortable.

"What's that, daddy", she asked pointing to the files.

"Just some stuff from work. It's boring", he replied. He could feel Yelena watching them. He lifted Natalie off of him. "How about you go change. Aunt Daisy will be here soon to take you to the park."

Natalie smiled. "Okay." She got off the couch and ran to her room. Fanny ran right behind her.

Clint stood from the couch and walked over to Yelena who was shaking her head slowly. "I know you're angry", he said softly.

"You promised that you would not bring any of this home", she replied angrily.

Clint sighed. "I know, but I couldn't help it."

"And that's the problem, Clint. You've been doing this for over a year and have not found anything. Vanessa died over a year ago." She took a deep breath. "Maybe it's time you let it go."

Clint had no expression on his face. The only expression Yelena could see was in his eyes. She could see pain, sadness, and anger. So much anger. Her eyes slowly widened as she realized what she said.

"Clint, I-"

"Don't", he almost growled. He was forcing himself to be quiet so Natalie would not hear. Yelena froze at his tone. "You know what she meant to me. How dare you tell me to let this go. It's like me telling you to let Natasha go."

Yelena's anger reached the surface.

Right before she could say anything, Natalie's voice rang through the apartment. "Daddy, I need your help."

"I'm coming", Clint replied. He walked out of the kitchen and went to Natalie's bedroom.

Yelena was still very angry as he walked out. She has so much she could say, or scream, at him. She felt her phone vibrate in her pocket. She pulled it out and read the mission alert from Fury.

Yelena walked to the bedroom to get ready to leave. She then walked to Natalie's room and watched Clint help her put on her jacket. Clint looked up at her.

"Fury needs me", she said.

Clint knew exactly why. "You know how long you will be gone?"

She shook her head. She walked in and crouched down to Natalie's level. "Hey baby."

The young girl walked over to her mother. "You're leaving?"

Yelena nodded. "Yes, I am." She stroked her daughter's blonde hair. "I promise I'll be home soon."

Natalie wrapped her arms around Yelena's neck. Yelena smiled sadly and returned the hug. She kissed her daughter's head before letting her go. She stood back up and walked out of the room, completely ignoring Clint.

That is when it hit Clint that he completely screwed up.

 

Present Day...

 

After spending a few more hours at the Compound, Clint returned to his apartment in the city. When he opened the door, Fanny was sitting and waiting for him. The dog walked over to him and looked up at him.

Clint smiled and pet her. He walked to the fridge, grabbed a beer, and walked to the couch. After taking a swig, or two, he closed his eyes and laid his head back. The darkness and silence enveloped him quickly.

Fury stationed him in New York City a week ago which meant he was stuck in a small, quiet, empty apartment. He did not want Natalie to be in the apartment alone so Sam agreed to stay with her in D.C.

Fanny, however, had to come with him because Sam and Natalie, mostly Natalie, did not want him to be alone. He appreciated the sentiment. He also could not say no to his daughter.

After a few minutes of rest, Clint's phone started buzzing. He picked it up and read 'Sam Wilson' on the caller ID. He smiled. He knew it was Natalie wanting to say goodnight.

They talked for about fifteen minutes. Natalie went on and on about what she and Sam did. Clint smiled and laughed all throughout it. Then he and Sam talked for a few minutes.

When Clint hung up the phone, he turned on the news. His eyes widened and he could not think or move. The newscaster was speaking about a masked person fleeing from a dangerous scene in the city.

His ears began ringing at the words being said by the newscaster. His eyes were fixated on the image of the unknown person wearing the suit.

"This is the first potential sighting of the Ronin in years", the newscaster said.

Everything else that the newscaster said just went in one ear and out the other ear. Not a second later, his phone began buzzing. Looking at the caller ID, he knew this was going to be a big ear full.

 

Forty-five Minutes Later...

 

He hung up the phone for the fifth time that night. Seeing the Ghost on the news warranted calls from Fury, Hill, Coulson, the Security Council, and May. Daisy had also called him.

Clint's answer to each person was the same, "I'll handle it."

Clint turned off the news, put food in Fanny's bowl, and left the apartment. He had to find the suit. More importantly, he had to know who had it and how much that person knows.

Clint did what he did best, be a spy. It did not take him long to track the person. Once he found the person's location, he saw five men trying to break into a car. He saw the person in the car was wearing the suit.

"Nothing is ever easy, is it", Clint muttered from the roof of a building.

Throwing a hood over his head, he got down there. The five men had no idea who they were fighting. Clint easily knocked them all down. Clint reached through the broken drivers side window and removed the person from the car.

As he dragged them into a nearby alley, the person tried to fight back but Clint's hold was to strong. He threw the person against the wall, removed the mask, and got ready to punch but froze.

A kid. He was staring at a kid.

The kid's eyes widened. "You're Hawkeye", she exclaimed.

"Who the hell are you?" Sensing her fear, Clint let go of her and dropped his fist.

"I'm... Kate Bishop", she managed to say. The shock and adrenaline still in her system.

"You're a kid." He turned to look in the direction they came. "My God." He looked down at the mask then back at her. "How did you get this suit?"

Kate tried to answer but no coherent words came out. Clint turned his head when he heard sirens.

"Look, kid, we've got to get you out of here. You can't be seen wearing this suit. You live near here?"

"Yeah." She continued to mumble as Clint grabbed things.

"Here, take this", he said handing her her backpack. "Are you gonna be okay?"

"Yeah, I'm gonna be fine."

Clint did not know if she was answering him or comforting herself.

The two started to walk and Kate would not stop talking about what she saw at the car. Clint tried to comfort her.

Clint looked around as they walked to her apartment. She was asking him a whole bunch of questions that he had automatic-like answers to. They got to the building where her apartment was. When Clint closed the door to the building, he leaned his head against it and sighed.

They walked through the door and Clint looked around. He could tell the apartment was for someone who just left home. Then his eyes landed on the dog lying on the ground.

"Some guard dog you got there."

"Oh, uh, he's not my dog."

Clint ignored her reply and looked at the suit. "So, wanna get the suit off so I can get going?"

"Yeah, yeah, I'll be right back." Kate went upstairs and the dog followed her.

Clint could hear her whisper some things to herself. He only rolled his eyes. "Where did you get the suit?"

"A black market auction."

Clint began thinking about how that could be possible. "So, you bought it?"

Kate came back downstairs and stood in front of Clint holding the suit and a bow. "No, not exactly."

Clint read through the lines. "Uh huh." He took the suit from her. "What all did you do in the suit?"

"I beat up some guys, saved the dog, and some light B and E."

Clint sighed softly. If he was being honest, he missed those days. "Shouldn't you be in school?"

Kate chuckled. "Funny you should ask. Now that I've answered all your questions, I have so many for you."

"I'm not done yet."

"Okay, but when you are, can you sign my bow? You're kind of my favorite Avenger."

"Are you okay, by the way?"

Kate nodded. "Yeah, no, I'm good. You should see the other guys."

"I did. The Tracksuit Mafia."

Kate smirked. "That's their name? A little on the nose, don't you think?"

"I didn't name them."

"Are they the ones who killed my mom's fiance's uncle?"

"Your mom's fiance's uncle?"

Kate nodded. "Armand the third. Of at least seven."

"I... I do not know."

Kate slowly nodded. "Hmm."

"What I do need to know is if anybody saw your face?"

"No. I kept the mask on like a pro."

Clint breathed a small sigh of relief. "Okay, because the person who wore this suit made a lot of enemies. And the Tracksuits are just one of them."

"That doesn't sound good."

"You told nobody about this suit?"

"No."

"I need you to be sure?"

"I am."

"Certain?"

"Yes."

"The Tracksuits followed you from the auction to where I found you. Did you stop anywhere?"

"Just dropped off the dog."

"Hey, Kate Bishop", someone yelled.

"And my name is on the buzzer."

Clint's eyes widened. "Oh no. Get down."

Suddenly, a molotov cocktail came through the window.

Clint ran to the window to see the Tracksuits preparing to throw another one. Clint broke the window, caught the bottle, and threw it back at them.

They began screaming and groaning. Kate had fired an arrow at a fire extinguisher and it shot outside. It did not distract them for long because they threw another one into the apartment.

"We need to get the suit", Clint yelled among the roar of the ever growing fire.

Kate was looking around at everything. "My home. My stuff."

Clint knew there was no way they could get to the suit. "Is there a fire escape?"

"What about the suit?"

"Don't worry about it. Get the dog and get out!"

The two made it out the fire escape while the Tracksuits were busy arguing with each other and the shop owners.

They went down to the subway and hopped on board. Some blocks later, they exited and went to a small pharmacy. Clint grabbed some supplies while Kate started asking a whole bunch of questions and making comments.

Once they left the pharmacy, they went to Clint's apartment. Fanny greeted him at the door and went over to Kate. Both dogs taking an instant liking to each other.

"Did you save a dog too", Kate asked.

"No, she's my dog."

"What's her name?"

"Fanny."

Kate snorted. "Where did you get a name like that?"

Clint looked at her about to reply but no words came out. His mind went to Natasha, then to the fight he had with Yelena. "It's a long story. Come here."

Kate walked over and sat down in one of the chairs at the table. Clint grabbed some items out of the bag. He began to patch up her wounds.

In the process of Clint patching Kate's wounds, she looked around at his apartment. She took notice of how empty and bland it looked. There was not even a single picture hung anywhere.

"This place is sad", Kate said.

"What", Clint asked as he patched up a scratch on her forehead.

"This place is sad. There's no color or life anywhere. I mean, you don't even have a single photo."

Clint walked to the sink in the kitchen to wash his hands. "That's because I don't live here."

"Then who's apartment is it?"

Clint sighed. "It's mine."

"You just don't live here? Even though it's your apartment."

Clint turned around and walked to the table. "That's right. I live in Washington D.C because I work at SHIELD."

"Then why are you here?"

"Because I was overseeing the reconstruction of the Avengers Compound."

"It's being rebuilt", Kate asked excitedly.

"Yes. Then I watched the news", he said grabbing some bandages.

Kate's mood changed when he said that. She became silent for a moment before looking at him again. "Are we safe here", Kate asked quietly.

Clint looked at her. "We're fine. They won't find this place."

"How do you know?"

"It's a SHIELD safe house kind of. It has guns hidden all throughout it and an advanced security system. We're safe."

Kate watched him grab his keys and walk to the door. "Where are you going?"

He opened the door. "To get the suit." He closed the door.

Clint got to the building in fifteen minutes and saw all the firefighters and police outside. He knew they were still working. He also knew the best way to not be noticed is to blend in.

Clint stealthily got into the scene, past the police barricades, and grabbed a firefighter turnout coat and helmet. He kept his head down so no one would notice him.

Arriving to her apartment, he looked around. Everything was burned. Nothing remained. He walked over to the chair where the suit was but stopped when he saw nothing on the chair.

He frantically looked around but he could not see the suit.

"Not again", he muttered under his breath.

Clint quickly got the turnout gear back to where it belonged. He looked at the crowd that was forming behind the barricades. That is when he someone that looked a lot like Yelena standing in the crowd staring right at him.

He knows that cannot be the case because she was still on a mission. Even if she finished it, she would have been in D.C to be with Natalie.

Clint heard footsteps getting close to him. He looked again at the crowd to see her gone. Shaking the thought out of his head, he quickly left the scene.

When he got to his apartment, it was silent. Fanny was by the door looking up at him while wagging her tail. He smiled at her before walking to the kitchen where he saw a note from Kate.

Clint walked to his bedroom, quietly passing the closed guestroom door. He figured Kate would be asleep already. In her note, she apologized and said she would leave in the morning but he was going to have a very different conversation with her.

Chapter 35: The Suit and Sword

When Kate woke up the next morning, the nice aroma of coffee filled her nose. She smiled. She climbed out of bed and walked out of the guest bedroom with the dog right behind her.

She walked into the kitchen to see Clint pouring himself a cup of coffee and Fanny eating out of her bowl. Clint grabbed a cup for Kate and gave it to her.

"Thanks", Kate said quietly. She poured some coffee into the cup. "I'll get out of your hair soon."

Clint sighed. "Yeah, about that. I can't let you leave."

Kate turned to look at him. She quirked her brow. "What do you mean?"

"The Tracksuits know who you are. That means they're gonna be coming after you."

"I can handle myself."

"Yeah", Clint snorted. "I saw you barricade yourself in that car." Kate brought the coffee cup to cover her cheeks. "Plus, I didn't find the find the suit last night."

"What", she asked with concern in her voice.

"When I went to your apartment last night, the suit was gone."

"Could the Tracksuits have gotten it?"

"It's a possibility but I don't think so. I think one of the firefighters took it."

Kate walked over to the fridge and opened it. She was surprised by the lack of food. The contents only being some beer bottles and snack items. "Your fridge is more depressing than the apartment. Is this seriously all you have?"

Clint rolled his eyes. "I told you, I don't live here full time. Since I'm not here a lot, I don't shop. Fanny is the only one who needs food here."

"Well, I'm hungry. Is there anywhere we can go?"

Clint sighed with a small smile. Kate's whining reminded him of Natalie. "Yeah, there's a diner down the block."

 

Fifteen Minutes Later...

 

"You can't tell me who wore the suit because it's someone close to you, isn't it?"

Clint nodded. "For five years, the Ronin terrorized the underworld. But what he's done goes back over a decade."

"Seriously", Kate asked with wide eyes.

"The name Ronin came from the five years after the snap. He adopted a lot of names over the years. The most popular being the Ghost."

"Why?"

"He was unseen by his enemies. He was too fast for them to hit. He killed anyone and everyone that saw him. He knew no mercy."

Kate felt chills go down her spine at the thought of wearing the same suit as the person who did all that. "If it's his suit then why are you looking for it and not him?"

"Because he died on a mission."

Kate almost chocked on her food. "He was a SHIELD agent?"

Clint nodded.

Kate began thinking. "That black auction had items from the Avengers Compound. How did it end up there?"

"He gave it to me to keep safe after we found him."

"We?"

"Me and Natasha." Clint is hoping his lies are enough to get her to stop asking questions.

Kate nodded. Then she began eating again.

After a few minutes of silence, Kate looked at him again. "What's your plan?"

"My plan?"

"Yeah, your plan. What's your plan to stop the Tracksuits?"

"I don't know."

"Whatever it is, I know it's going to work."

"What makes you think that?"

"Because you're a hero, Clint. You always win", she said in a fan girl-ish tone.

"I'm not a hero, Kate."

"Yes, you are. You saved my life during the battle of New York plus who knows how many others. Then you saved lives during Sokovia. Then you saved the universe. You are a hero."

Clint closed his eyes. He has so much he could tell her about those events. He could tell her about the dozens he killed days prior to New York, he could tell her about Pietro dying to save his life, and he could tell her about Natasha dying to save the universe. And him.

"I'm not a hero", he whispered. It was quiet enough that Kate did not hear. He got up. "I'm gonna pay." He looked down at the dog. "You need to come up with a name for him."

Clint walked over to the cashier and paid. While he was waiting for a receipt, he got a text. He pulled out his phone to see the text from Daisy. It was a Facebook post from the NYFD Larpers page. Someone made a video with them wearing the suit.

"Ah shit", he muttered.

The cashier gave Clint the receipt and he walked back to the table. He explained the situation to Kate. After that, Kate went to speak to her mom. Clint to where the NYFD Larpers page says the event is being held.

Clint was less than pleased with himself. The park was full of first responders dressed in costumes and fighting each other. His main goal is to find the suit among all the people dressed in costumes.

He put on some of the so called "gear" he needed to wear and walked into the crowd. Clint "fought" his way through them all and looked for the suit.

Clint's humiliation hit a new peak when he found the guy wearing the suit. The man's terms to take it off made Clint wish he destroyed the suit when he had the chance.

"Let's get this over with", Clint said quietly as the guy hit his neck with the fake sword.

 

Ten Minutes Later...

 

The firefighter who was wearing the suit gave it back to Clint. Once that was over, Clint went to a gym and put the suit in a bag and put the bag in a locker. Once he closed the locker, he sat down on the bench.

Now all he had to worry about was the sword. And the Tracksuit Mafia if he was being honest. He knows what they're capable of, and so, he is afraid for Kate.

Clint returned to his apartment, fed Fanny, took her for a quick walk, grabbed his bow and arrows, and left. He knew the Tracksuits would find him if he was outside.

Darkness soon took over but the city was still bright. However, Clint was in a darker part of the city. That is when a white van pulled up in front of him and three men jumped out.

Clint could not help the smile on his face. "You should've brought more guys."

The main guy smiled. "We did."

More guys got out of the van and surrounded Clint. Another van pulled up and more guys surrounded Clint. One of them quickly put a bag over his head. They forced him into one of the vans.

When the bag was removed from his head, he was surrounded by a number of Tracksuit guys. He had an expressionless face as he looked around. He could not place where he was.

He listened to the men argue while he occasionally said something. It was not until they mentioned Kate that he was taking it seriously.

"Kate Bishop is guy in costume", the guy said.

"Look, I'm here to talk to your boss", Clint said. That is when he broke the zip ties behind his back and held his hands out in front of him.

All the guys pulled out their guns and aimed them at Clint. One of them started to yell at Clint and another one was trying to calm him down. Once he was calm, they looked at Clint.

"Where is Kate Bishop?"

"I've never met her."

Clint started to hear sounds on the roof. The other guys also heard some sounds. They asked him again and again and Clint still denied knowing who Kate was.

Clint's eyes wandered up when he heard more noise. Some of the guys also looked up at the ceiling. Clint had a bad feeling about what was about to happen. As if on que, Kate came falling through the ceiling.

Clint sighed. "Dammit", he whispered.

 

The Next Morning...

 

Clint and Kate were rocking back and forth silently. The Tracksuits were talking among themselves. A young woman walked over to them and everyone became silent.

Clint immediately made eye contact with the young woman. She removed the tape from Clint's wrists. The guy next to her wrapped his wrists behind his back as she began signing to Clint.

"She asked 'What are you doing here, Clint Barton'", the man translated.

"Riding a unicorn", Clint replied. He looked at the woman. "Now, about the suit." The guy next to him began translating with sign language. "She put it on by accident. She didn't know what it means. She is not the Ronin. Look at her, she's nine and spoiled rotten."

The guy signed all that to her.

She began signing. "She took out a few of my guys and came running when you were in trouble. Seems like she has something to do with it", the man translated. "And just because she's not the Ronin doesn't mean the Ronin is not back."

"That's just a rumor", Clint said.

"How do you know", the man translated.

Clint's eyes briefly wandered down. "Because he's dead."

The woman stepped closer to him and signed. "So, who got him then", the man translated.

Clint failed miserably at stopping the memories, from that night, invade his mind. "The Black Widow."

The guy signed that to the woman. She started signing. "So the Ronin is dead and the person who killed him is dead? That's convenient. How do you know this?"

"Cause I was there."

"You're lying", the guy translated.

Clint just stared at her.

"This isn't working", the man said. He walked over to Kate. "Why'd you put on the suit?"

Before Kate had a chance to reply, the woman grabbed her by the throat.

"Maya, no", the man yelled as he tried to get them apart.

When he did get them apart, he pulled the woman aside and began talking to her. Clint used the distraction to break the tape around his wrists. When he felt the tape snap, he jumped off the ride and ran. The guys ran after him.

He was able to hide from them but the woman found him. The two got into a fight. He was impressed with her fighting ability. During their fight, the young woman kicked him in the head.

Clint hit the ground hard. The only sound that was present was a loud ringing. Now, she pissed him off. He got back up and they continued their fight. When Clint found his bow, he trapped the woman.

Clint freed Kate and the two fought their way out of the building. They stole one of the Tracksuits cars and drove away. The Tracksuits followed and got into a car chase. Kate got to fire a whole bunch of trick arrows at them. Some were impressive, others were not.

They barely managed to escape the Tracksuits when they jumped over the bridge and got a ride on a train. They went back to Clint's apartment. Clint made sure they were not followed while Kate took a shower.

When Clint got back, he saw Kate playing Fanny and Lucky.

"Where we followed", Kate asked.

"No." Clint was still hearing the ringing but it was starting to fade. "I need to ask you a question."

"Okay."

"Was there a sword with the suit?"

"What?"

"Was there a sword with the suit? When you took the suit from the auction, did you see a sword?"

"There was a sword at the auction."

"Do you know where it is?"

"Yes. My mom's fiance stole it."

Clint sighed. "Great."

"Why is it so important?"

"Because the suit and sword are one. I may have the suit but I still need the sword."

"I can get it for you."

"No, it has to be me."

Kate nodded. "I'll take you there." She watched Clint grab his phone. "What are you doing?"

"Getting some information."

"From SHIELD", she asked excitedly.

"Kinda."

After Clint finished what he was doing, they left. The whole way, Clint looked over his shoulder to make sure they were not being followed. His nerves kept saying they were but he did not see anything out of place.

It was not until they arrived at the building that Clint saw someone who resembled Yelena. It was a very heavy resemblance too. Clint watched her for a moment before Kate got his attention.

The elevator ride to the penthouse floor was quiet. Clint's mind was going back to the person who looked like Yelena. She was watching them then looked at the building as if she was surveying it.

He did not have much time to dwell on it though because the elevator doors opened. He and Kate walked out of the elevator. Clint followed Kate to the computer.

"What are you doing?"

"I'm trying to find evidence on Jack", Kate said.

"You're still on that?"

"Yes. He is involved in some way. I know it."

Clint rolled his eyes. Then he heard something. The sound was faint so Kate did not hear it but he still did even with the ringing. He walked away from Kate and walked toward the noise.

Suddenly, a blade appeared centimeters from his throat. His eyes wandered down to it and he recognized it as his sword.

The man who he assumed to be Jack held the sword as he stood in front of Clint. "Stay exactly where you are", he said.

"Jack, no", Kate yelled as she ran over to them.

"What the hell is going on", a woman he assumed to be Eleanor asked. She walked into the room. "And why is there an Avenger in my dining room", she asked looking at Clint.

Clint smiled. "Hi."

Jack lowered the sword. "Oh my god. You're... you're Archer."

"Hawkeye", Kate said.

"Clint", Clint replied to correct them both.

"You have a serious branding issue", Kate whispered.

"No, I don't", Clint whispered back.

Clint could not have felt more awkward when he sat down at the table. It was mostly silent except for Kate trying to explain what they were doing. In the midst of it all, Clint saw the sword leaning against the wall.

"Can I show you out", Eleanor asked Clint.

"Let me grab my coat", Clint said as he stood.

Clint used his coat to cover to hilt of the sword when he retracted it. No one noticed him take it. He and Eleanor walked to the elevator.

"Let me clarify", Eleanor said, "she is not a superhero."

"Oh yeah, I could not agree more. I mean, she's pretty good at this stuff but-"

"Natasha Romanov was pretty damn good at it, wasn't she? Being good isn't always enough to keep you alive."

The elevator door opened. "I see", Clint said.

"Clint, do you have children. I'm just going to assume you do. It's been a rough week for my family. I've lost people before and I know in your line of work, you have too. I am letting you know, I cannot lose Kate."

Clint nodded. "I understand." He walked into the elevator.

"So you'll forget about this case?"

"I can't do that, but I what I can do is ensure your daughter stays safe." The doors closed.

Clint walked out of the building and went in the direction of his apartment. As he was walking, he got a call from Daisy.

"Hey, Daisy."

"Hey. How's New York?"

"Cold. What did you find?"

Daisy laughed. "I looked into Jack and Eleanor like you asked. There's nothing on Eleanor but Jack has some red flags."

"Like what?"

"He is the CEO of Sloan LTD. I looked into them and it turns out they're a shell company for the Tracksuit Mafia."

"Shit."

"There's more."

"Isn't there always?"

"One of the employees of Sloan LTD is named Kazi long ass name."

"Long ass name?"

"Yeah. I'm not even going to attempt saying that. Have you heard of him?"

"I have. I also think I met him this morning. He was the lieutenant for William Lopez before I killed him."

"Now he's the lieutenant for his daughter Maya?"

"Looks that way."

Daisy sighed. "Four years ago, you went to that meeting expecting to see the big boss. You think you will get him now?"

"I don't know. I need you to look into Maya Lopez now, though."

"Do I have to do everything?"

"The kid I'm helping has been taking most of my attention."

"Fair enough." There was a moment of silence. "How are you doing, Clint?"

"I've been better."

"You miss her?"

Clint smiled. "Like you wouldn't believe."

Daisy smiled. "Sounds like you're tired too. You need a map?"

Clint snorted. "I need more than that."

"Take the night off and rest. This can wait till tomorrow."

"Thanks, Agent Johnson", Clint said before hanging up the phone.

Clint walked back to his apartment. He put food in Fanny's bowl and grabbed a whole bunch of ice packs. He laid down on the couch but Kate suddenly came through the door. She had a lot of decorations in her arms.

The two, mostly Kate, decorated the apartment. Lucky and Fanny were watching them work. Clint taught Kate a few tricks. He also explained to her what Daisy had told him.

After a little while, Kate and Lucky went to the guest bedroom. Fanny followed Clint to the main bedroom. When Clint had climbed into the bed and closed his eyes, the nightmare started.

The one specific memory it was based off of was the moment Natasha died. Kate was partly to blame because she asked about his best shot and he told her about being sent to kill Natasha.

 

The Next Morning...

 

Clint stood in the kitchen sipping his coffee when Kate walked in. "Good morning."

"Morning", Kate replied. She grabbed a cup of coffee. "What's the plan for today?"

"You're going to get my trick arrows back from an NYPD warehouse."

"How will I do that?"

"I made friends-ish with some of the Larpers when I got the suit back. Some of them are first responders."

"What are you going to do?"

"That's classified."

Kate began laughing then realized he was not joking. "Okay."

Kate and Lucky left the apartment and went to the park. She did not know what to expect with the Larpers. Clint and Fanny left the apartment a few minutes after and went to the Avengers Compound.

The whole Ronin and Tracksuit thing did not keep him from doing his original job. While the construction crew finished working, Clint and Fanny walked around the compound.

He was impressed with how well the compound looked. It looked a lot like the way it did before Thanos destroyed it.

"Now it's going to be a SHIELD base", Clint said looking down at Fanny. The dog looked up at him while wagging her tail.

Fury had told Clint about the plans for the compound about a year ago. Clint had some mixed feelings but did not make them known.

Clint walked back to the entrance to the main compound building. He smiled when he saw the memorial that Pepper had authorized they make. It was not like the one in New York. This one only had photos of Steve, Tony, and Natasha with a plaque that says 'In Memory Of' above the photos.

Clint and Fanny walked around the large hangar and then the rest of the compound. After that, the foreman informed Clint that it was finished. Clint shook his hand and watched them leave.

When he got back to his apartment, he was not expecting to see three of the Larpers inside with Kate.

"Hey, Clint", Kate said.

"Kate, what's going on?"

"I'm helping them with their costumes."

"I see that but what are they doing in here?"

"We had no where else to go", one of them said. He held a tray up to Clint. "Snicker doodle?"

Clint smiled. "I'm okay. Where are the trick arrows?"

"Don't worry, they're on their way."

Clint looked down at Fanny. She looked up at him and turned her head to the side.

A few minutes later, Clint got a text from Daisy with an address on it. The message was followed by another one that said 'Maya's home address'. The cop friend arrived and gave Clint the trick arrows.

"I have to go", Clint said.

"You mean we have to go", Kate said.

"Change your clothes first."

Kate started taking off some of the costume layers she was trying on. "What are we doing?"

"Hopefully bringing this to an end."

Chapter 36: An Unlikely Return

Clint and Kate stood on the roof of the building across from where Maya's apartment is. Clint looked through his binoculars while Kate stood there.

"What's the plan", Kate asked.

"I'm still thinking it through", Clint replied.

"Why don't we just walk in?"

"Because we can't just walk in. There's a million things that can go wrong. For one, she could be home. Two, other Tracksuits could be there." Clint put down the binoculars and saw Kate was gone. He looked around. He saw her cross the street.

"What are you doing", Clint asked over comms.

"Walking in", Kate said.

Clint shook his head silently as he listened to Kate "brag" to some guy she was sharing the elevator with. He really wishes he came alone.

Kate snuck into the apartment. "I'm in."

"Do you see anything?"

"I don't think she's home. No one's home actually. Everything looks normal", she whispered.

"Why are you whispering if no one's home?"

Kate slowly followed what Clint was saying. "I don't know. Just a force of habit, I guess."

Clint rolled his eyes. "Whatever. Look, there's always something to find."

"Is there some spy trick you can teach me to help me find evidence?"

"Yes."

"What is it?"

"Open your damn eyes and look around", Clint almost yelled.

"Okay. You didn't have to say it like that", Kate mumbled. She walked around the room and looked at everything. She could not find anything that looked out of place until she found a photo. "Clint, I think I found something."

"What?"

"A photo of a young girl."

"It could be Maya as a kid", Clint said as he looked through the binoculars and watched Kate.

"The photo looks nothing like her, Clint. This girl is white, blonde, has blue eyes." Kate examined the photo closer. "The Washington Monument is in the background. This photo was taken in D.C."

Realization hit Clint like a bus. He knew the girl in the photo was Natalie. He could hear Kate saying other things but Clint ignored it all. He could only focus on the photo.

He heard commotion coming from Kate's side of the comms. "Kate, what's going on?"

"It's Maya", Kate said before being thrown into a cabinet.

"I'm on my way", Clint said as he go ready to fire an arrow at the apartment.

Clint felt something was wrong. He could feel someone was watching him. Clint put the bowstring back into its resting position and slowly turned around. Standing several feet across from him was a person in an all black suit wearing a mask with goggles.

"Clint, where are you", Kate yelled over the comms.

"I've got problems of my own", Clint said.

The person ran at Clint and started attacking him. After the first few attacks, Clint was able to identify the skill set belonging to a Black Widow. It did not take him long to overpower the woman.

Kate managed to get out of Maya's apartment. She fired a grapple arrow at the roof with Clint and zip lined over to them.

The Black Widow elbowed Clint and broke free of his hold. Maya used the zip line to also get over to the roof. All four of them were on the same roof.

Clint and the Black Widow started fighting again. That left Kate and Maya to fight.

It did not take long for Clint to overpower the Black Widow again. However, something was familiar about the vest she was wearing. She was about to break free of his hold again. Clint could feel her about to break free so he grabbed her mask.

She broke free of his hold and Clint stumbled back with the mask in his hand. Clint looked at the mask in his hand then at the woman with her back turned to him. All he needed to see was the braid of blonde hair to know who it was but the knife really struck him when she turned to face him.

"Yelena", Clint mumbled.

Kate and Maya stopped their fighting for a second to look over at the two.

Yelena had a very angry expression on her face. Kate saw the defeated look on Clint's face. She was about to say something but Maya kicked her in the face.

Clint almost did not duck in time to avoid Yelena's punch. He was trying to focus on the fight but he was also trying to figure out what was wrong with Yelena.

Yelena tried to kick him but he dodged it. She flipped around and kicked him in the chest. Clint stumbled back and fell to one knee while holding his chest.

While trying to catch his breath, Clint looked at the fight between Kate and Maya. He was impressed Kate was holding her own. He thought that before Maya tripped Kate.

Clint slowly got back to his feet. Yelena scowled at him. Clint, again, felt someone watching them. He looked over at the roof of the building with Maya's apartment. He saw an all too familiar figure watching them, a Taskmaster. The Taskmaster pulled out a bow.

Clint's eyes widened. He knew what was about to happen. Clint quickly recovered his bow that Yelena hit out of his hand earlier in the fight and grabbed an arrow from his quiver. The Taskmaster fired an arrow. Clint fired one back.

A medium sized explosion occurred in between the buildings.

Both Maya and Yelena used the explosion as a distraction to leave. Kate looked around for them but saw no one. Clint, however, kept his eyes on where the Taskmaster was standing. The smoke from the explosion cleared and the Taskmaster was gone.

"Where did they go", Kate asked.

No answer.

Kate looked at Clint and saw he was staring at the roof. "Clint", she yelled.

Clint looked at her. "What?"

"What are you doing? We need to go after them."

"No, we're not."

"What do you mean?"

Clint's eyes wandered to the different cuts and bruises on her face. "We aren't going after them. I am."

"Not alone, you're not."

"Kate, you're not listening. You're done here", Clint said as he took her bow out of her hands. "Leave, now."

"Clint, I'm not leaving you."

"Someone has hired a Black Widow assassin to kill me, Kate. This whole thing has grown beyond the Tracksuits."

"I'm not leaving you", she yelled. Her heart was hurting because of what he was saying.

"You're not ready, Kate", he yelled back. "You're just a kid. You're not ready for this fight. Go home, Kate. Now!"

That was the final blow to Kate. Her mouth was open as if to speak but no words came out. Tears were welling in her eyes. Knowing that arguing would be useless, she just walked away.

Clint went to the roof of the other building. He had no idea what he was looking for but he knew he had to look. It was also a surprise that Poseidon's Blood was involved with the Tracksuits. Well, he did not know for sure but he assumed they might be.

He did not know what to think. He was just looking around, not actually investigating. His mind was reeling from finding out about Yelena. He also could not focus because of the Taskmaster.

Clint spent a few minutes longer on the roof then went home. He walked through the door to a quiet and dark apartment. Fanny walked over to him and sat at his feet.

He smiled at her. Clint looked around. The decorations were still up but the Larpers were gone. Lucky was also gone which meant Kate stopped here first. Clint set the stuff down on the counter.

Clint filled Fanny's bowl and walked over to the items. His eyes drifted over his bow, his quiver, Kate's bow, and the mask. Clint grabbed the mask and looked at it.

The goggles specifically caught his eye. He examined them closely and started taking them apart. He examined the different parts until he saw some of the wiring.

He looked down at Fanny who was eating next to him. "EOD training came in handy again." Fanny stopped eating and looked up at him.

He learned in EOD training that bombers use unique wiring styles. He took apart a Blood laser rifle a few years ago and saw the wiring. The wiring inside the goggles matched the style Clint saw in the rifle.

He knew the goggles were made by Poseidon's Blood.

"This really changes things", he said looking down at Fanny again. Fanny did not react.

Clint grabbed his phone and dialed Sam's number.

"Hey, Clint. If you're calling to say goodnight to Natalie, you're two hours late."

Clint chuckled. "I knew she would be asleep already. I need to talk to you."

"Okay. What's going on?" Sam could hear a certain tone in his voice.

"It's about Yelena."

Sam tensed. "What about her?"

"She's in New York. And wants to kill me."

"Wait, what?"

"The Tracksuit thing has evolved into a Blood situation."

"Poseidon's Blood?"

"Yep", Clint said as he nodded.

Sam snorted. "Why can't you ever seem to ignore those guys?"

"That was my plan but they had plans of their own."

"And those plans involved Yelena?"

"Yeah, and a Taskmaster."

"Damn, Clint. You know how to do Christmas."

Clint sighed. "Yeah, tell me about it."

"What about that girl you were telling me about? Isn't she involved?"

"Not anymore. With any luck, they'll leave her alone."

"What do you need from me?"

"Help." Clint was silent for a second. "I need your help, Sam."

"What about SHIELD?"

"They can't know about this."

"Why not?"

Silence.

Sam quirked his brow when Clint did not reply. "Clint?"

"Yeah, I'm here."

"Thinking about Yelena?"

"Yeah."

Sam wanted to know why Clint did not want to ask SHIELD for help but knew to trust Clint. "I'll be in New York tomorrow. What do you want me to do with Natalie?"

"Bring her here."

"Are you sure about that?"

"Yeah, Sam. I want her here."

"Okay, Clint. Whatever you need."

"Thanks, Sam."

Clint hung up the phone and dialed another number. He sighed when no one picked up. He heard the beep.

"It's Clint Barton. I need you at my location tomorrow. She's been compromised."

He hung up the phone and set it down. He walked to the bedroom. Fanny started following him. Clint changed into sleeping clothes and climbed into bed. Fanny jumped up on the bed and laid her head on his chest.

Clint started petting her. "I miss them too", he said quietly.

Fanny moved up closer next to him.

Clint closed his eyes. He felt so tired and sore. Everything that has happened in the past few days has really worn him out. It did not take long for him to fall asleep.

 

Next Morning...

 

Kate starred at the plaque with their six names on it. She read each name individually and stopped when she got to Clint's name. Memories invaded her mind.

She started to remember the day Loki attacked New York. The day her father was killed. The day she saw her hero. Tears began to well in her eyes. Her mind started to go through the recent events. Clint yelling at her was especially in her mind.

"It breaks your heart, doesn't it", Kate heard a female voice say. Kate turned her head to see an older woman standing next to her. "All that they've sacrificed and for what?"

Kate looked at the woman up and down. She was older than her, a touch shorter, and had a purple streak in her hair. "They saved us", Kate said.

"But was it worth it?"

"What do you mean", Kate asked, thinking she was in a completely normal conversation.

The woman turned to look at her. "I mean, did they really save us? Did they really succeed in saving the world?"

"They stopped Loki, Ultron, and Thanos."

She laughed. "Those aren't the threats I am referring to, Kate Bishop."

Kate immediately went on alert. She took a few steps back from the woman. "Who are you?"

"I'll explain everything, but you have to come with me first."

"I'm not coming with you." Kate was about to turn to walk away but saw a large man in an overcoat staring at her. His hand was hovering over something in his pocket.

"You better come with me", Kate heard the woman say.

Kate followed the woman into a diner nearby. The man in the overcoat followed them inside and sat at a different booth.

"Who are you and why am I here?"

"Clint never told you about me", she asked before taking a sip of coffee. Kate shook her head. "Well, that makes sense." She took another sip of coffee. "My name is Valentina Allegra de Fontaine."

"Is that supposed to mean something to me?"

Valentina hummed. "No, it's not. It will to Clint Barton though."

"What do you want with Clint?"

Valentina smiled before shaking her head. "You poor child. He really has left you in the dark, hasn't he?"

"What are you talking about?"

Valentina grabbed the file next to her and slid it over to Kate with her hand on top of it. "How much has he told you about the Ronin?"

Kate did not respond as Valentina took her hand off the file. Kate saw the SHIELD logo on it. Then her eyes saw the 'Level 10 Access Only' on the bottom. She slowly opened it.

Valentina stared at Kate as she read through the file. The older woman could see Kate become more and more horrified. Valentina smiled as she watched the image Kate had created of Clint be destroyed.

"Looks like your hero isn't so much a hero after all", Valentina said.

Kate looked up at Valentina. "This can't be true", she muttered.

"It is, Kate. All of it is true."

Kate looked down at it again before looking at Valentina. "Why are you showing me this? Clint doesn't want me involved anymore."

Valentina smiled. "Because you're involved whether he likes it or not. All you had to do was put on the suit."

"I didn't know what it meant."

"Doesn't matter, Kate." Valentina got out of the booth. "You put it on, you become involved." She put cash on the table.

Kate watched Valentina walk out. Three men at a booth also stood and walked out. A blonde woman sitting at the bar also walked out. Kate recognized her as the woman from the roof.

Kate grabbed the file and ran out of the diner. She looked around but could not see any of them. She looked down at the file in her hand. She only had one choice she could make, go tell Clint.

Kate went to her mom's penthouse first to get Lucky. After that, they went to Clint's apartment. Kate stood at his door and took a deep breath. She slowly brought her hand up to knock.

Clint walked over to the door. He was unsure who would be at the apartment. He opened it and was surprised to see Kate standing there. "Kate?" He saw the tears in her eyes.

"So, you're the Ronin?" Kate's voice broke.

"What?"

"You were the Ronin this whole time?"

"Kate, what are you talking about?"

Kate handed the file to him. Clint looked at the SHIELD logo then opened it. "Where did you get this?"

"From Valentina."

Clint's eyes widened. Everything else Kate said went in one ear and out the other. He grabbed her arm and pulled her inside before closing the door.

"Clint, what the hell is going on?"

"You talked to Valentina?"

Kate nodded. "She found me."

"Were you followed here?"

"I don't... I don't know. I don't think so."

Clint sighed. "Dammit." He turned away from her and walked to the counter where he was sharpening the sword.

"What is it", Kate asked.

"Valentina is not someone you want to meet unless you work for her. And sometimes, not even then."

"Like the Black Widow from last night?"

Clint looked at her. "What?"

"The Black Widow you fought last night was there with Valentina. So were a few other guys."

"Yelena", he whispered. Clint turned back around and started talking to himself.

Kate watched him as he did this. "Clint, what are you talking about?" Clint did not reply. "Clint", she yelled.

Clint looked at Kate. "What?"

"Care to clue me in? I mean, you know who threatened me earlier and who almost killed you last night."

"And you want an explanation on the Ronin?"

Kate nodded. "Yeah."

Clint ran his hand down his face and sighed. "Valentina is head of an organization that I've spent years trying to take down. That's why she showed you the file of me. She wanted to turn you against me."

"Why?"

"Because it's what she does. Ever since I started hunting them, they've been making sure to hurt me back."

"But they didn't hurt me."

"No, they didn't. Doesn't make you lucky though. You're still involved in this."

"That's what she was saying."

"The person on the other roof who shot the arrow last night was the Taskmaster, a highly trained right hand to Valentina."

"You sound like you've fought him before."

"I have. I've fought multiple of them before."

"What?"

"The suit is the same but the person is different. The suit allows the wearer special skills and abilities."

"What kind of abilities?"

Clint stared her right in the eye. "The abilities of the Ghost."

Kate gulped. "They can do what you do?"

Clint nodded slowly. "I'm the only one who can kill the damn Taskmasters."

Kate looked down. She had no idea what to say. She looked up again. "What about the woman you fought?"

Clint took a second to think it through. "Her name is Yelena Belova. The reason I know she is a Black Widow is because she's Natasha's sister."

"Sister?"

Clint nodded. "She's special to me. That's why I couldn't fight her last night."

"Why is she helping Valentina?"

"I have a theory that Valentina tricked her into believing I killed Natasha."

"Who would believe that? Everyone knows you didn't kill her."

Clint didn't respond. He walked over to the sword and continued to sharpen it.

"Well, what are we going to do?"

"I'm going to find a way to stop them."

"I'm going with you."

"No you're not, Kate."

"Yes, I am."

"What makes you think that?"

"Because I'm involved in this. You said it yourself, I'm involved whether I like it or not."

Clint looked down. He made eye contact with the dogs who were staring at him. "Fine." Clint finished sharpening the blade while Kate stood there. "Do you need to grab anything?"

"Um, no."

"Good because we're leaving the apartment."

"Where are we going?"

"A place where we can make more trick arrows."

"We already have trick arrows."

Clint retracted the blade and put the hilt in his bag. He packed a few other things he needed including the arrows. Clint grabbed Fanny's leash and collar and put it on the dog.

"The arrows we have may be able to fight the Tracksuits, but Poseidon's Blood is different. We're going to need stronger and more dangerous arrows."

Kate snorted. "Poseidon's Blood?"

Clint sighed. "I didn't name them, Kate."

The two, plus Fanny and Lucky, walked to Clint's SUV. They drove out of the city. Kate was starting to get confused.

"Are we going to a SHIELD base?"

"No. SHIELD doesn't have a base in New York."

"Why not? New York is the perfect place to have a base."

"I'm not sure."

The rest of the drive got silent after that. It gave Clint a chance to think about how he was going to handle the whole Blood situation.

 

Two Hours Later...

 

"Holy shit", Kate said shocked and surprised when she saw the newly reconstructed building.

Even though the snow that had just started to fall, Kate could still see the large 'A' on the side of the main compound.

When Clint parked the SUV, he and Kate exited. Lucky and Fanny also jumped out behind their respective owners. Clint smiled when he saw a little girl playing in the few inches of snow.

"Daddy", came the squeal of the young girl.

Clint smiled and crouched down.

Kate watched a young girl run into Clint's arms. He laughed and spun her around. Clint kissed the girl's cheek. She giggled and buried her head in his neck.

Kate watched Clint set the young girl down. Fanny immediately ran over to her and started playing. Kate stared at the girl. She knows she has seen the girl before. Then it clicked. The girl is the same one from the photo in Maya's apartment.

Something still bothered Kate about her. The girl looked a lot like someone else. After watching her play for a second, Kate's eyes slowly widened.

Clint walked over to Sam who was watching Natalie. Sam looked at Clint and smiled. The two embraced each other.

"Thanks for doing this, Sam", Clint said when they separated.

"Of course. You think I would turn down a call for help?"

"Get anyone else or is it just us?"

"I got Rhodey and Bucky."

"Alright", Clint said while nodding.

"Are we going to be enough?"

"With Blood, it's never enough."

Kate walked over to the two men. Lucky's leash still in her hand. "Hi, I'm Kate Bishop. I'm a big fan." She stuck her hand out.

Sam shook her hand and smiled. "Always nice to meet a fan."

Kate looked at Clint. "Can we talk?"

Clint nodded. He looked at Natalie and Fanny. "Hey, Nat. Why don't you and Uncle Sam go inside? I'll be there in a minute."

"Okay", the girl replied. She ran over to Sam. The two walked back into the compound with Fanny right behind them.

Clint watched them walk inside before turning to Kate. "What is it?"

"Are you incapable of telling the whole truth the first time?"

"Yes, and the second time", he said plainly and quietly.

Kate was taken aback by the answer. "Okay. Care to explain why you didn't tell me you have a daughter? Or tell me why she's a spitting image of the same woman who tried to kill you?"

"I didn't tell you about her because I don't tell people I've known for less than a week that I have a daughter."

"Hard to argue with that", Kate mumbled. "What's her name?"

"Natalie. And she looks like Yelena because Yelena is her mother."

Kate gulped. "You said Yelena was special to you. This is what you meant?"

Clint nodded. "Very few people actually know about Natalie. Yelena and I are trying our best to keep it that way."

The two began walking into the compound.

"The Tracksuits know about her", Kate said as she looked around.

"I think Valentina had something to do with it."

"Why would she help them?"

"Because she can get something out of it. She doesn't help out of the kindness of her heart."

Clint and Kate walked into the living room of the compound. Bucky and Rhodey were playing chess while Sam was playing with Natalie and Fanny.

"Can you sit with Natalie for a bit", Clint asked.

"Yeah."

Clint walked over to Natalie and Sam. He crouched down and started talking to her. Then he pointed to Kate. Natalie nodded. Clint smiled and kissed her forehead before Natalie walked over to Kate. Fanny was right behind her.

Clint, Sam, Rhodey, and Bucky walked into the conference room that was next to the living room. Kate could still see them.

"How much did Sam tell you guys", Clint asked.

"Not much", Bucky replied. "Just that you need help fighting some guys."

"Always itching for a fight, Barnes", Rhodey asked.

Bucky smirked.

"Sam isn't wrong", Clint said. "I do need help fighting some guys."

"Why isn't SHIELD here", Rhodey asked.

Clint briefly looked at Sam. "Because Yelena's life is in jeopardy."

"And they won't help save her", Bucky asked.

"They will consider her a target. I'm not letting that happen."

"How do you know that", Rhodey asked.

"What did SHIELD want to do when the Ghost attacked?"

"Kill him", Sam and Rhodey replied simultaneously.

"Exactly."

"Okay. What's the plan", Sam asked.

Clint thought for a second. "Blood doesn't do things lightly. When they attack, they make a statement. We wait for them to make a move."

"You think they're gonna make their move soon", Bucky asked.

Clint nodded. "I do." He turned his head to see Natalie playing with the dogs. "Val's here in New York and she brought a Taskmaster with her. Their plan is happening soon."

"Whatever it is, we'll be ready", Sam said.

Chapter 37: Darkness and Light

A few hours after the four men talked, Clint managed to access the SHIELD files he created on Poseidon's Blood. He thought it would be a good idea to look through everything he had accumulated on them over the years.

Sam and Rhodey joined him in looking through it all. He explained to them what to look out for. Each person took a different year and began looking through them. They read the notes that Clint and Daisy created on the files when they were created or added later. Sam and Rhodey were surprised by how much he had on them.

After a while, Natalie came into the conference room and sat in Clint's lap. The computers they were using only showed information and no photos so Clint was not worried about what she saw.

Natalie eventually laid her head against Clint's chest and looked up at him. Clint smiled at her before kissing her forehead. She smiled at him before turning her head to the computer on the table. Clint did not want her getting bored or reading anything on the computer, so he grabbed the paper and pencil next to him and gave them to her to draw.

That seemed to distract her from what they were doing. Clint looked out the window to the next room to see Bucky and Kate playing chess. He could tell that Kate was asking him a bunch of questions.

An hour passed and there was still nothing new that any of the three men could find that Clint or Daisy did not already touch up on. Clint hated the feeling of helplessness. The only difference in this case is the eight year old girl in his lap that he did not want to hear what he wanted to say.

Another hour later and still nothing. They had gotten to the year 2023 and Clint had became defeated. Rhodey and Sam were rubbing their eyes trying to stay awake.

"Thirteen years of information and there is nothing new here", Clint muttered. He began stroking his daughter's hair.

"Sorry, man", Rhodey said.

"Are you sure we aren't missing anything", Sam asked.

"This is everything", Clint said. "Absolutely nothing is missing."

Bucky knocked on the open door and walked inside. "Clint, you have a visitor."

That seemed to spark some hope in him. Natalie got off his lap and followed him into the lounge area. Sam and Rhodey, both very curious, followed.

When they got to the lounge area, they saw an older woman standing in the room. She smiled when she saw Clint and Natalie.

"Hello, Clint", she said with a heavy Russian accent.

Clint smiled back. "Melina." He looked down at Natalie who was staring back at him with a huge smile on her face. "Go ahead."

The child laughed and ran over to Melina. The older woman crouched down to catch the running child. They both laughed. Clint could hear Melina whisper something in Russian in Natalie's ear. It made him smile to hear Natalie reply back, also in Russian.

"Care to explain", Sam said quietly but loud enough for Clint to hear.

Clint turned his head to see Sam, Rhodey, Bucky, and Kate very confused.

"Right", Clint said. He walked over to Melina who was still hugging Natalie.

"Everyone, this is Melina Vostokoff. She's Yelena and Natasha's mother."

Melina released Natalie and stood. She smiled at them. "Hello everyone."

Their faces went from confusion to surprise. None of them were expecting Clint to say that. They had no idea what to say. After a moment, Sam cleared his throat and walked forward.

"Nice to meet you, Melina. I'm Sam", he said extending his hand to her.

She shook his hand. "Nice to meet you, Sam."

The others also introduced themselves to her.

After introductions were done, Clint told Natalie to sit in the lounge area while they all talked in the conference room. The child was reluctant at first but finally listened to her father. He knows she got that trait from both him and Yelena.

The adults walked into the conference room and took a seat. Melina was the only one standing. She reached into her bag and pulled out two vials. One had red liquid and the other was clear.

"I know that Clint knows what these are already but I assume the rest of you do not", she said.

Everyone shook their heads.

Melina placed the vial with the clear liquid down on the table. "This is a mind control serum I developed when I was with the Red Room. It was specifically used to control the Black Widows." She put the red vial down next to the clear one. "This is the antiserum."

"Why do these matter", Kate asked.

"Valentina is using the mind control serum to control Yelena", Clint said pointing to the clear vial.

"You know that for sure", Bucky asked.

"I do. Valentina used the same stuff on me. Melina was the only person who could get the antiserum."

"The serum was an altered recipe though", Melina said.

Clint looked at her. "Yeah."

Sam cleared his throat. "I have to say, and I hope I'm wrong, but Poseidon's Blood could have made their own mind control goo."

Clint stared at the red vial before picking it up. "I saw the look in her eyes when she attacked me. It wasn't the look of an enemy, it was the look of someone wanting revenge." He looked at Sam. "You're right, they could have made their own shit." He grabbed the vial. "This may be our only hope though to get Yelena back."

"How does it work", Rhodey asked.

"Just spray it in her face and it should knock her back into reality", Melina said.

"That shouldn't be too hard", Bucky said.

"She's crazy skilled", Kate said. "It's going to be difficult."

"Then I'll take care of it", Clint said. Everyone looked at him. "I'm Yelena's target. She'll be focused on me which means I can get close enough to use it on her."

"What about the Tracksuits", Kate asked.

"The who", Rhodey asked.

"A low level street gang that operates in the city", Clint said. "They're still a lose end." Clint turned his head to see Natalie playing with Lucky and Fanny. "I'll take care of that too."

"Alone", Bucky asked.

Clint rose from his chair. A familiar feeling started to rise in his chest. "I'm the reason they're even a problem." He walked out of the conference room.

Sam got out of his chair and followed Clint to wherever he was going. The two had gotten the attention of Natalie.

"Let me out", the voice in his head said.

"No", Clint said quietly.

"You haven't let me out in some time. Let me out!"

"No", he yelled. He had walked to the entrance of the compound and it was empty and quiet so his yell echoed.

"What the hell is going on with you", Sam said when he reached Clint.

The archer turned to face Sam. "What do you want, Sam?" He began to speak quieter.

"Who did you yell at? There is no one here."

"It's nothing, Sam. What do you want?"

Sam wanted to push but knew better. "You're seriously going to fight the Tracksuits alone?"

"Yes, I am."

"Why? You called me for a reason."

"I know, but the Tracksuits are my problem. They're not Kate's, not yours, not anyone else's problem but mine. I'll handle it my way."

"Daisy told me what that means Clint. So I ask again, why?"

"To protect my daughter from them." Sam sighed. Clint took a deep breath to finish the sentence. "As long as they know about her, she's in danger."

Sam nodded slowly. "Fine. I know nothing I say is going to convince you from leaving."

"You're leaving?"

Clint and Sam turned their heads to see Natalie standing a small distance away from them. They looked at each other surprised. They knew they were speaking quietly enough that not even from where she was standing, she would have been able to hear them coherently.

Clint sighed. "Come here, baby." Natalie walked over to them. Clint crouched down while Sam stepped back. Melina also walked into the room and stood next to Sam.

"You're leaving me", Natalie asked on the verge of tears.

Clint's heart broke to hear those words. He hated himself for being the cause of her sadness. "Hey", he said as he rubbed her arm. "I don't want to leave you but I have to go for a little while."

"Like mama?"

"No", he said shaking his head. "I will be back tonight."

"You promise?"

Clint smiled. He knows never to promise anyone anything in his job. He couldn't break Natalie's heart anymore than he already had, though. "I promise I will be back tonight."

The blonde child crashed into her father. She wrapped her arms around him and nuzzled her head in the crook of his neck. Clint wrapped his arms around her and kissed her head.

Natalie knows very little about what her parents do but she knows enough to know it is dangerous. Clint knows she has become accustomed to him and Yelena occasionally leaving but for some reason this felt different. It was different to him and he had a feeling it was different to her.

"I'll be back soon, baby", he whispered.

Natalie slowly nodded into his neck.

The two broke apart. Clint, however, kept a hold of her little hand. He leaned forward and kissed the tip of her nose making her giggle. Clint smiled at her. Her giggle was remedy to the pain he was feeling.

Clint stood up and made eye contact with Melina. The woman walked over to them. Natalie looked up at her and took her hand. Natalie waved at Clint before walking away with Melina.

Sam walked over to Clint. "Looks like she's starting to develop your sense of hearing."

"It makes sense. I was around her age when my senses started to become advanced."

"How is Yelena going to react?"

I told her it could be hereditary, but I have no idea."

The two men walked to the doors.

"Do you have a plan on how to find them?"

"Don't need one. I'm going to make them come to me."

Sam smirked. "Figured as much."

 

One Hour Later...

 

Clint walked down the sidewalk of New York City. He had a hood over his head to cover his face. When he got to where he was going, he took off his hood and stared at the plaque on the wall.

This is the first time he has seen the plaque so a small smile crept on his face. He took a deep breath trying to focus on what he was going to say.

"Natasha, I really need to talk to you right now. You were the bravest of us all, weren't you? Loyal, stubborn, always had to win, didn't you, for a stupid orange rock. I've replayed that a million times in my head hoping for a different outcome, but I do my best everyday to earn what you gave me. I just want to say", he gulped trying to finish the sentence. "I just want to say, I'm so sorry for what I'm about to do."

Clint threw his hood over his head as he turned around and walked away.

He saw one of the 'Trust A Bro' trucks and fired an arrow at it with a message attached. After that, he went to the gymnasium where he stashed the suit. It was already dark and his mind wandered to Natalie. He knew she would be going to sleep around now.

Clint leaned against the wall and contemplated calling her. Clint pulled out his phone about to call but stopped when he saw the photo on the home screen. It was a photo of Yelena and Natalie that was taken when Natalie took Clint's phone as a joke.

Clint sighed. He turned off the phone before walking to the locker where he kept the suit. Once he grabbed the suit, he stared at it for a moment before putting it on.

He went to the spot where he told Maya to meet. He saw multiple Tracksuits with her. He knew she would bring them with her. Clint quickly took them out.

When Maya noticed she was alone, she looked around. She saw him and started shooting at him but he was too fast. She used all her ammo trying to shoot him. She looked around and saw something in the dark. Clint walked forward and stood underneath the dim light of the street pole. The blade extended from the hilt.

Maya ran at him and started to attack him. He was quick to dodge her attacks. It was a pretty even match between them.

The Ghost was not in control of the mind so he was dialing back on his attacks. Not for the sake of trying to take control on the Ghost's part. While fighting Maya, Clint was simultaneously fighting the Ghost in his mind.

Maya noticed how slow Clint was fighting and used the distraction. She managed to get the upper and knocked the sword out of his hand. The Ghost was yelling to be let out. Clint knows the Ghost could end this fight in seconds but he did not want that. He also knows that if he keeps this pace up, Maya could beat him and kill him.

Once he put some distance between them, he made the decision to let some of the Ghost out. He grabbed the sword, dodged Maya's attack, and threw her to the ground. Before she could get up, he raised the blade to be inches from her throat. He removed his hood and mask.

"I wanted you to see my face", he said and signed.

'So I can watch you kill me?'

"No", he said while shaking his head.

'Why?'

"I was after someone else that night. I was after your boss", he said as he signed what he could.

Maya was surprised by what Clint said. 'And my father?'

Clint sighed. "I was tipped off by an informant of your boss. Your father was the only boss there but not the one I was after." Maya's anger was still present but also present was confusion. "You and I are the same."

"No, we're not.'

"Yes we are. You and I are weapons, but when you're filled with rage, it makes you blind. You can be used. You can be manipulated. Trust me, I know."

'You're a monster!'

"If that were true, you would be dead already for having a photo of my daughter."

All of a sudden, someone flipped over the two of them and landed behind Clint. Using the brief distraction, Maya kicked the sword away from her and got up. Clint watched her run to her motorcycle and leave.

He watched her until she was out of sight. Then he turned around. He saw a man dressed in all black, white rope wrapped around his hands and forearms, and a black mask covering most of his face.

"Matt? What are you doing here?"

"I've been tracking the Tracksuit Mafia for the past three months. I heard they were meeting someone here. I didn't know it was you."

"Why are you investigating them?"

"It's their boss I'm after. Why are you here?"

"To finish a problem I started years ago."

"So, you're after him too?"

"Him?"

"Fisk. He's their boss."

Clint's eyes widened. "Kingpin is their boss?"

Matt nodded. "I don't know how he got out of prison but all I know is he's out."

"And working with Poseidon's Blood", Clint said.

"Seriously? How do you know?"

"Maya had a photo of Natalie in her apartment."

"And you think Blood gave it to them?"

"I would not put it past Valentina to recruit the Tracksuits."

Matt nodded. "Fair enough."

"I'm hoping Maya doesn't do anything stupid after this."

"You gave her something to think about. I could hear her heartbeat while you were saying everything. She doesn't know what to believe."

"I hope it's enough." Clint looked around. "I have to get back to the compound."

Matt nodded. "Good luck, Clint."

"You too, Matt."

Clint left the area and returned to the compound. He changed out of the suit before leaving the city. When he got to the compound, most of the lights were off and it was quiet.

He saw Bucky sleeping on a couch in the common area. He assumed everyone else was actually in the bedrooms. He walked a little further before seeing Melina leaning against a door frame. He walked over to her and looked inside the room to see Natalie sleeping on the bed with Fanny on the edge of the bed.

"How long has she been asleep?"

"Only a few hours. She wanted to stay up to wait for you."

Clint sighed. "Thank you for staying with her."

The two adults stared at her for a few minutes.

"It's amazing how much of a resemblance she has to Yelena", Melina said.

Clint smiled. "Yeah, she has so much of Yelena in her."

"And you", Melina said looking at Clint. He looked at her. "She has a lot of you in her too, Clint."

Clint focused back on Natalie. "I just hope it's only the good."

"It is, Clint."

Clint smiled. "Thanks, Melina."

Melina put her hand on Clint's shoulder and gave it a squeeze. She let go of his shoulder and walked to the room she was given.

Clint walked into the room and carefully sat down on the bed. He sat on the little space next to Natalie. Fanny watched him as he did this. His whole body ached when he laid back and brought his legs up. He looked down at the blonde girl and smiled. Clint carefully wrapped his arm around her. He laid his head back against the wall and closed his eyes.

Clint knew what is coming will not be easy. The things he may or may not be forced to do being the contributing factor. Clint pulled out his phone and sent a text to Daisy. He had no idea if she was on a mission or not but he hoped she would reply to him quick.

Soon enough, he fell asleep.

The Next Day...

 

Everyone sat in the conference room while eating breakfast. Melina and Natalie were eating somewhere else so that the others could talk.

"You know the boss of the Tracksuit Mafia", Kate asked.

Clint nodded. "His name is Wilson Fisk, better known as Kingpin."

"Wasn't he the guy taken down by Daredevil", Sam asked.

"Yes." Clint's phone buzzed. He saw that it was a text from Daisy and read it. "Dammit."

"What is it", Kate asked.

Clint sent the video to the big screen in the conference room. They saw a big man wearing a white suit holding a cane. Sitting across from him was a woman. Kate's eyes widened at the realization of the woman being her mom.

They listened to her admit to killing and to committing multiple other crimes for Fisk. They listened, and watched, Fisk threaten her. Just when they thought the worst of the video was over, Valentina walked into the room.

"Ah, shit", Clint muttered.

Chapter 38: Prelude to the Storm

Many Years Ago...

 

Clint walked into his office completely exhausted. He walked over to his couch and fell face down on it. He let out a low groan when his head hit the pillow.

He had returned from a mission just a few hours ago. Before he got two feet off the quinjet, Fury told him to find Valentina. That order filled him with dread.

The last few months have been nothing but missions and Valentina's experiments. He has not been able to get an actual break.

Clint re-positioned himself on the couch so he was looking up at the ceiling. He was staring at nothing but darkness since his lights were off and it was very late, or early in Washington D.C.

As tired as he was, he did not want to sleep on the couch in his office. He did not think it would be comfortable. Clint forced himself up. He grabbed what he needed from the office and walked to his SUV.

The drive home was quick much to Clint's delight. He was glad there were hardly any other vehicles on the road. It did not make sense to him until he saw the clock, 02:45. Clint was so tired and worn out that he did not pay attention to the time when he left the Triskelion.

He pulled into the parking lot of the apartment complex and parked. He dragged himself out of the SUV and walked up the stairs. He silently passed the doors of his neighbors. He opened the door to his apartment and walked inside.

He walked to his bedroom and stripped down to his underwear. Clint walked into the bathroom and looked at himself in the mirror. His eyes wandered to the fresh cut on his chest.

Clint slowly brought his hand to the cut. As soon as his hand touched the cut, he felt a sting. He knew not to aggravate the wound too much. He took a deep breath to ease the bad stinging.

Clint turned on the faucet and splashed some water on his face. The cut was not the only fresh wound on his body. There was a small cut on his arm that was still stinging him.

The cut on his chest came from a mission but the cut on his arm was something else. After the mission, a GHOST Protocol mission, Fury ordered him to see Valentina.

She attached EKG sensors to his body and head. She watched his vitals and could tell he was angry. She grabbed a knife and made a small incision on his arm.

That made him mad, but it did not elicit the reaction that Valentina was hoping for. Clint clenched his fists while he stood there and watched her work. He turned his head to see a small trail of blood from the cut.

 

* * * * * * * * *

 

Clint leaned against the window of the compound. He was watching Natalie play in the snow. He wanted to spend some much needed alone time with her but his mind would not let him.

At the time he had no idea why Valentina did what she did but now he does. Now he knows that Valentina was trying to get a reaction from the Ghost, not him. He just could not figure out why she wanted it.

Seeing Valentina with Fisk and Eleanor gave Clint more questions than answers. He assumed that Poseidon's Blood allied with the Tracksuit Mafia but he does not know why. He knows that Poseidon's Blood has nothing to gain.

Clint closed his eyes. The words spoken by Valentina in the video were going through his head. All the times she mentioned his name sent chills down his spine.

Suddenly, Clint felt something very cold hit his face. He opened his eyes to see Natalie laughing at him. He smirked. He knew his daughter just nailed him in the face with a snowball. It also confirmed for him that she was starting to develop her aiming abilities.

"She got you good", Sam said.

Clint turned his head to look at the new Captain America. "Yeah, she did", he said with a smile. He wiped some of the snow off his face. "What's up?"

"Kate needs to talk to you. It sounds important."

Clint looked over at Natalie who was throwing snow up in the air. Clint sighed. "Alright. Stay with her?"

Sam nodded. "Of course."

Clint walked inside the compound and walked to the lounge area. He saw Kate sitting in a chair in the conference room. She was bouncing her leg like crazy. He knocked on the open door and walked inside.

"What's going on", Clint asked.

"I talked to my mom", Kate said.

"You what?"

"I had no choice, Clint. After seeing her in that video and find out she did all those things, I couldn't help it."

Clint rubbed his eyes and sighed. "Okay. What did she say?"

"Jack was arrested."

Clint quirked his brow. He was expecting a lot more. "That's it?"

"I couldn't force myself to mention the video."

"Good. She can't know we're on to her."

"On to her? Clint, she's my mom. She's not a criminal."

"She is a criminal, Kate. I know she's your mom, but she admitted to a lot of crimes."

Kate sighed. "I know." She looked around for a moment. "What do we do?"

"I'm not sure. We need to talk to your mom, though."

Kate thought for a second. "The Bishop Christmas party. You can talk to her then."

Clint nodded. "She may not be alone is the problem."

"What do you mean?"

"She stopped being a part of Fisk's operation. He will make her regret that."

"Okay. So, what's the plan?"

"We're gonna need a lot of help."

"You mean the Avengers in this building aren't enough?"

"Well, they help", he said while nodding. "But I was thinking some way too dangerous trick arrows."

Kate's eyes widened. A small smile crept on her face. "Seriously? You can make more?"

Clint smirked.

Clint gathered everything he needed and went to the lab. Everyone gathered to the lab to watch him build the arrows. They were surprised to see the Stark arrowheads and Pym particle arrowheads.

Natalie and Melina were also watching him. Natalie took a particular interest in it. She has watched him build some things before but nothing this dangerous. She tried to grab some of the arrows but Melina stopped her.

Clint created a lot of arrows and gave some of them to Kate. Everyone got ready and boarded the quinjet. Clint hugged Natalie before walking on board. He got into the pilot seat and started the jet. Then the quinjet took off.

 

New York City...

 

Clint, Kate, and Bucky walked across the street and entered the building. They went to the floor where the party was being held. Clint, and Bucky, instinctively surveyed the room. Clint and Kate walked around while Bucky sat at the bar.

"Should he be drinking", Kate asked.

"With the super soldier serum and all the things Hydra did to him, there's no way he'll get drunk", Clint replied. "Sam, Rhodey. Status?"

"All clear here", Sam said from the roof of a building next to Rockefeller Center.

"Same here", Rhodey said from a different roof.

Both men were wearing their suits and watching the entrance to the building. They were also watching other buildings for other threats.

"I don't see my mom yet", Kate said.

"Tell me what you do see", Clint said. "What are threats? What are assets?"

Kate looked around. "Threats? Well, just about everyone here is an asshole. Assets? We've got some of them around here."

"Yeah, is there a reason you brought those guys", Sam asked.

"I don't know. We may need their help."

"From them", Bucky asked.

"We can hear you", Grills said.

"It's going to get dangerous. That's all we're saying", Rhodey said.

"We can handle danger", Missy said.

"Want to weigh in", Kate asked Clint.

"Yeah. They're here to protect the civilians and nothing more. We are going too busy with the real threats."

"And that's coming from the man with arrows that can kill the Avengers", Sam said.

Kate looked at Clint astonished. "You have those?"

"Sam's joking", Rhodey said with a chuckle. "Right?"

Clint pursed his lips together. Kate saw it. "Holy shit. He's not lying."

"You have arrows that can kill us", Rhodey asked.

"I work the for the most stubborn man on the planet. You really think he would put together a team of enhanced individuals and not have contingencies?"

"And you were that contingency", Kate asked.

"Natasha and I both were", Clint said. "Go look for your mom. I'm going to take a lap."

"Copy that", Kate said.

Kate and Clint separated. Kate quickly found her mom and pulled her aside. Clint continued to walk around. He recognized no one but many people seemed to recognize him. Some of them would come up to him and thank him.

"Clint, we've got something outside", Sam said.

"What is it?"

"A car just pulled up." Sam watched it carefully. "Two men just exited the front seats."

"And the back?"

Sam watched the two men open the back doors. Two women exited. Sam instantly recognized them. "It's her, Clint. It's Valentina. And Yelena's with her."

"Why is Valentina here", Rhodey asked.

Clint did not reply. He turned around and walked to the bar. He sat on the opposite end of where Bucky was sitting. The bartender put a glass in front of him and he drank it all in one go.

"Val's coming to you, Clint", Sam said.

"Copy. Keep your eyes on Yelena. Rhodey, watch for uninvited guests. Bucky, stay with Kate", Clint whispered.

"Copy that", the men said.

Clint put the empty glass down on the counter. Then he felt a presence next to him. "Hello, Clint", the female said.

"Val", he said without turning to look at her.

The bartender walked over to them. "He'll have another and I'll have what he's having", she said. He nodded and started making the drinks. Valentina took a seat. "I think we should talk."

Clint smirked. "About your terms of surrender? I agree."

Valentina smiled. "I miss that humor of yours, Clint."

"Okay, so what then?"

"About what's about to happen."

"And what's that?"

"What happened April 4, 2014?"

Clint stayed silent. His grip on his glass tightened and his free hand clenched.

"Oh come on, Clint. You know exactly what I'm talking about."

Clint sighed. "The day SHIELD fell."

"That's right. And it's going to happen again."

"What makes you think that?"

"I'm not sure. A premonition from the gods maybe."

Clint froze at her words. He knew exactly what she was referring to. He was about to respond but saw a reflection of a laser in his glass.

"Sam, sniper north side", Clint said before ducking down.

The sniper started to shoot at Clint. He ran for cover where he could. Bucky ran to where Kate was with her mom and Jack. Sam and Rhodey took off from the roofs. Bucky ran into the room to see Kate, her mom, and Jack arguing.

"What the hell is going on", Kate asked.

"Poseidon's Blood and Tracksuit Mafia. They're all here trying to kill Clint."

Just then, a man ran into the room. He was also dressed in a nice suit. He activated his electric baton. Bucky quickly spun around and punched the man in the chest. The man flew into the wall and fell to the ground.

Kate turned to her mom. "Stay here." She ran over to Bucky and the two left.

Clint finally got somewhere safe outside the main room. "Sam, status?"

"I don't see a sniper anywhere, Clint."

Clint sighed. He looked at the crowds of people running. "Dammit, I lost Valentina. What about Yelena?"

"I lost her when you sent me after the sniper", Sam replied.

Clint leaned his head against the column he was hiding behind. "Can this get any worse?"

"It can", Rhodey said. "Eight Trust A Bro trucks just pulled in front of the building. Dozens of tac agents are exiting."

"Blood", Clint muttered. "Sam, Rhodey, hold them off. Bucky, Kate, get down there. Grills, I need you guys to focus on evacuating the civilians."

"What about Valentina and Yelena", Bucky asked.

Clint sighed. "I don't know. We'll worry about them later."

Clint started running again. He grabbed a hidden bag and went downstairs to a different floor. He ran into a corner room but stopped when he saw a few agents and tracksuits in it.

They all looked at him before grabbing their weapons. The Poseidon's Blood agents activated their electrical batons while the Tracksuits grabbed their bats. Clint removed his suit jacket and bow tie.

"They don't know who they're fighting", a voice said. "Let me out."

"No", Clint said outloud. "They're mine."

The men looked at each other oddly before attacking him. Clint, however, was faster to the punch. He dodged the swing of the bat from one of the Tracksuits and punched him in the head, knocking him out.

A Blood agent was next. He swung to baton at Clint but Clint grabbed his arm and twisted it. Another agent ran at Clint. The SHIELD agent grabbed the Blood agents gun and shot the one running at him.

He twisted the arm of the Blood agent until he heard a crack. The agent screamed in pain. Clint hit the agent on the back of the neck and he fell down unconscious. Without a second thought, he shot the last Tracksuit standing in the room.

Clint threw the gun to another side of the room when he realized what he did. He unzipped the bag and grabbed out his gear. He took off the clothing he had on over his suit.

He attached his quiver to the back of the suit and readied his bow. He walked over to the window and stood there. His eyes looked to the ground to see Sam and Rhodey fighting off the agents.

Something looked different about the agents. Different but at the same time, familiar. He did not have much time to think about it because he saw the laser dot on his chest. Clint turned to hide behind the wall right when the window shattered by a bullet, or more accurately a laser bolt.

Clint removed an arrow from his quiver and fired it into the air. The arrow blew up and became a smoke screen. He looked at the ground again. He removed an arrow from the quiver and shot it at the agent about to shoot Sam.

The smoke cleared and Clint was expecting gunshots but nothing. The fight on the ground had progressed. Kate and Bucky had arrived but more Blood agents and Tracksuits also arrived.

Clint, knowing no faster way down, took a few steps back and then ran to the window. He jumped out the window and fell right into the Christmas tree.

"Ow", he groaned as he readjusted his grip on the branch.

"I wish I had that on camera", Sam said while chuckling.

"Shut up, Sam", Clint replied.

Clint began moving around, trying to find a way down. He turned his head a little and made eye contact with an owl. He quirked his brow. "Hi."

"Clint, are you okay", Kate asked.

"I'm good."

"Hang on", Kate said as she aimed an arrow at one of the ropes holding the tree.

"Kate, no", Clint yelled.

Kate did not listen. She fired the arrow and it cut the rope. The tree started to fall and Clint held on tight. The three crashed down and Clint rolled off. He pushed himself up and glared at Kate.

"What? I got you down, didn't I", Kate asked.

Clint just rolled his eyes and walked passed her. He looked at the fight between them and the agents and Tracksuits. His eyes were scanning for three women in particular, but he could not see any of them.

Multiple Blood agents and Tracksuits started running at the two archers. Both of them grabbed arrows from their quivers and started firing. Small explosions and other weird things started occurring all over the place.

It was not until an agent got close enough to Clint that he noticed it. The agent activated an electric baton. Clint turned his bow into the staff. Clint blocked the first few attacks, saw an opening, and took the agent down. The agent tried to get back up but Clint knocked him out.

Clint crouched down and investigated the agent's armor. His eyes widened. He got back up and looked around. He could see everyone was having trouble taking down the Blood agents. Now he knows why.

"It's Phase Two armor", Clint said.

Sam landed next to him. "What?"

"Their armor. It's Phase Two armor."

"Okay, and", Kate asked.

Some of the agents that Clint and Kate took down got back up.

"It means they're going to be more difficult to take down than I first thought", Clint said.

"Great", Sam said. He looked at Clint. "Any idea on how to take them down?"

"Yeah, hit harder. Their kinetic energy armor is comprised of multiple metals making far range weaponry almost useless. Close range and their armor is weaker."

"Nice", Sam muttered.

Sam took off and started to fight the agents that were close to pinning down Bucky. Clint heard a truck horn getting louder and louder. He saw a Trust A Bro truck coming right toward him and Kate. He grabbed the Pym arrow and fired it at the truck. They watched the truck shrink down to the size of a toy and land in front of them. Clint picked it up.

"How do we fix that", Kate asked.

"I don't know. I'm gonna need to talk to Scott about that one."

Suddenly, the same owl from the tree flew over and took off with the truck in its talons. Clint and Kate watched it for a moment before turning back to the fight.

Kate went to help Rhodey who was taking fire from Blood agents. Clint looked around trying to survey the situation. The Phase Two armor really changed how he would approach the fight.

Clint fired some arrows at the guys that were getting back up. He had an advantage over everyone else because he knows the designs for Phase Two. Using that knowledge, he fired an electricity arrow at a small group of agents. Then he fired a concussion arrow. The electricity disabled the suit and the concussion knocked them out.

Bucky and Sam were doing okay with their fight. Bucky's vibranium arm was his only real chance against them. Sam did his best to make the fights face to face. He trusted what Clint said about the armor being weaker up close.

Kate was holding her own quite well. The only problem was that she was going through arrows like crazy. That forced Clint to give her some of his arrows. When she asked why, he said he did not need them.

Rhodey, like the others, was doing better at fighting them after Clint said what he said. The power of his guns were enough to actually knock them down. He also had help from the repulsor beams and armor.

Clint watched them fight. He was honestly proud to be "leading" them in the fight. Something was off though. He heard footsteps behind him. Before he could fully turn, he was tackled to the ground.

He groaned and started chuckling. "Hey, Lena." He pushed himself up to his feet and made eye contact with the blonde. He could see the anger in her eyes. "Oh, this is gonna hurt", he whispered to himself.

Yelena ran at him. Clint dodged her first few punches but could not avoid the fist to his face. Clint stumbled back and stayed on his feet.

"Let me out", the Ghost yelled.

"No", Clint yelled back.

Clint ducked under Yelena's kick. She tried to punch him again but Clint caught her arm. A wave of anger flooded through him and something in his mind wanted him to break her arm.

Clint knew that feeling and fought it. Yelena saw his moment of hesitation and used it. She kicked him in the chest to break free of his grip. Clint quickly regained himself but not fast enough to avoid Yelena sweeping his leg out from under him.

Sam, Kate, and Rhodey were fighting off the Blood agents. They all noticed that the agents stopped attacking. Sam was confused. Then they heard Bucky scream out in pain. They all saw Bucky get thrown into the wall.

Bucky tried to push himself up but he was kicked in the face and hit the ground again. Sam, Rhodey, and Kate watched the Taskmaster step in front of Bucky's body. They could hear the Blood agents start to laugh.

A Tracksuit standing next to the Taskmaster patted him on the shoulder. The Taskmaster looked at him before punching him hard on the side of the head. The Taskmaster walked toward them.

"This is going to be a problem", Rhodey said.

The three of them charged the Taskmaster. Kate shot an arrow at him but he dodged it. The Taskmaster punched Sam's shield with a loud bong. Rhodey went to hit him but the Taskmaster dodged the hit. He kicked Rhodey back.

Sam tried to attack but the moves were ineffective. The Taskmaster knew each one. Sam threw the shield but the Taskmaster caught it and threw it to the ground.

Sam ran at him to fight him. Kate tried to enter the fight but some Tracksuits got to her first. Bucky got back up and tried to grab the Taskmaster but he punched Bucky back. The Taskmaster grabbed Sam's arm, twisted it, and flipped him over.

Clint managed to get the upper hand on Yelena. He put her in a sleeper hold but did not squeeze. He was trying so hard not to hurt her but something in his mind wanted otherwise.

"Lena, you have to listen to me", Clint tried to say calmly.

Yelena tried unsuccessfully to break free of his hold. She whined knowing she had no choice but to listen.

"This isn't you. Valentina is controlling you. She's lying to you about Natasha."

"No", Yelena yelled.

Yelena elbowed him in the ribs and got out of his hold. She grabbed a baton and hit him across the face with it. Clint fell to the ground. Yelena put the baton back and pulled out her gun.

"I'm tired of listening to your lies", Yelena said.

Clint pushed himself up but he was still on his hands and knees. He could hear her getting closer to him. There was not much left he could do without hurting her. Then he thought of the one thing that would make Yelena stop.

He knew he had no choice but to do this thing.

Yelena stepped closer to the man. She had her gun aimed at him and was ready to pull the trigger. Then she heard a whistle. Hearing Clint whistle that tone made her stop dead in her tracks.

"How do you know that", she asked when he finished.

Clint got to his knees. "You and Natasha taught it to me." Clint watched her lower the gun. "You're teaching it to our daughter now."

"What? Our what?"

"Our daughter." He looked up at her. Clint could see tears ready to fall. He knew what, or rather who, the tears are for. "I miss her too, Yelena. I miss Natasha too."

Yelena could not hold back the tears. "I miss her so much", she cried.

Yelena put the gun back into the holster and walked toward Clint. She stood directly in front of him. Yelena put her hand out to him. Clint had no idea if she was in the right state of mind or not but he took her hand. She helped him stand up.

"Lena, I-"

"Clint", Sam yelled.

Clint and Yelena, still holding hands, both looked over to where the yell came from. They watched the Taskmaster throw Sam into the wall. He walked toward them, got out a bow, and fired an arrow at them.

Clint grabbed Yelena and covered her as the arrow exploded. They flew back and hit the ground hard. Clint got up faster and saw the red vile Melina had given him. He quickly grabbed it and ran over to Yelena.

"Sorry", he said as he got on top of her.

"What are you doing?"

Clint sprayed her in the face with the contents of the vile. He watched her slowly realize what was going on. Her eyes locked on with Clint's own.

"Clint", she mumbled.

Clint smiled. He got off her and helped her up.

"I have new orders", the Taskmaster yelled.

The two SHIELD agents looked at him. Clint clenched his fists. He started walking toward the Taskmaster. Clint removed a black hilt from his belt and the blade extended from it. The Taskmaster grabbed his own sword.

"Let me end this", the Ghost said. Clint let the Ghost win.

Sam and Rhodey helped Bucky stand up. Kate went over to Yelena but was very cautious. The men got there and Sam instantly checked on Yelena. Most of Yelena's attention however was on the fight.

Clint swung at the Taskmaster but it was blocked. The Taskmaster swung but Clint easily blocked it. Clint kicked him back. The Taskmaster tried to hit him but Clint knew how to block it.

It did not take long for Clint to disarm the Taskmaster of his sword. He knew the Taskmaster was not done. A blade extended from each of the Taskmaster's gauntlets.

Clint's grip tightened on the hilt. The Taskmaster ran at him. Clint dodged that attacks. Both men were fighting at a great speed. Everyone's eyes could barely stay with them.

The Taskmaster tried to stab Clint but Clint blocked the blade and kicked his leg. The Taskmaster faltered. Clint hit the Taskmaster right in the helmet with the hilt. The Taskmaster fell back.

Clint could hardly hold back his anger. The Ghost had a great hold. Before the Taskmaster could get back up completely, Clint used his sword to destroy one of the gauntlets before ripping it off. He did the same to the other one.

The Taskmaster tried to fight back but Clint hit him again with the hilt. That is when something inside him snapped. Clint threw his sword aside. He started to punch the Taskmaster's helmet with unrelenting fury.

He did not care that his hands were being torn up with every punch. Honestly, he did not have much feeling in any part of his body. All he knew at this exact moment was anger. The anger of the Ghost and himself was combined into one.

The Taskmaster's helmet was becoming more and more damaged with each punch. Clint grabbed it and tore it off causing great pain to the wearer. The man's face was bloody and bruised.

Clint grabbed his sword and walked to stand in front of the Taskmaster, who could barely get to his knees. He looked up at Clint. Nothing but anger and hate were in his eyes. Clint held the sword out to be inches from the Taskmaster's neck. His arm was shaking. He looked at the eyes of the Taskmaster. He saw pleading in the man's eyes.

Everyone watching the fight did not know what to do. Sam and Yelena were most surprised. Rhodey's helmet started detecting something.

"Sam, we have incoming", Rhodey said.

"More Blood agents", he asked as he saw the remaining Blood agents could only stare at the fight.

"No, it's SHIELD."

Sam looked back at Clint. "This will be interesting."

"Shouldn't we stop him", Kate asked.

"You cannot stop him", Yelena said. "No one can", she mumbled.

Clint could hear the sounds of the engines of quinjets. He knew SHIELD was almost here. His grip on the hilt tightened and loosened. His arm was shaking uncontrollably. It was like his mind could not decide who to listen to.

SHIELD quinjets flew overhead and SUVs surrounded Rockefeller Center. Dozens of tac agents got out and surrounded the Blood agents and Tracksuits. NYPD and NYFD also arrived.

One SUV pulled up and Fury got out of the passenger side. Coulson got out of the driver's side. The two walked over to the wall of the ice rink and saw Clint. Yelena turned her head and saw her superiors. Then she turned her head to look at Clint again. In her mind, she was pleading for him not to kill the man.

Clint's breath started to stagger. His body and mind could not agree on what to do. He knew his mind was battling itself. Clint felt tears well in his eyes. He had no idea why it was happening.

All of a sudden, Clint felt a coming presence. It was not a physical presence. Then he felt someone put a hand on his hand that was holding the sword. It seemed to stop the shaking in his arm.

"This isn't you, Clint", a voice said. It was a familiar voice but not one from someone who is alive.

"Natasha", Clint whispered.

Clint slowly lowered the sword from the man's neck. The Taskmaster let out a sigh of relief he had no idea he was holding. Clint retracted the blade into the hilt. Two SHIELD agents ran over to him.

"Take him away", Clint said.

"Yes, Sir", a tac agent said.

The two tac agents lifted the Taskmaster to his feet and took him away.

SHIELD took control of the scene and started arresting Blood agents and Tracksuits. They were also getting statements from civilians and the LARPers. Kate, with all her might, told them about Eleanor's involvement and got her arrested too. Kate also got checked out by paramedics while Rhodey, Sam, and Bucky spoke to Coulson.

Yelena was busy talking with Fury. They both had much to say to the other.

Clint was walking around trying to calm down. He looked up at the sky and saw the stars. It made him think of Natasha. He had no idea why but it did. He turned his head and made eye contact with Maya.

'I'm sorry', he signed to her.

Maya only nodded to him before putting on her motorcycle helmet. He nodded to her before watching her leave the area.

It was not a lot but it was enough for him.

Then Clint heard some faint noises of boots running. His suspicion made him go see what the noise was.

"I knew there was something off about that tip", Fury said.

Yelena smiled. Clint told her years ago that Fury would never formally apologize for anything. "I do not blame you, Sir. You did what you thought was right."

Fury nodded to her. He looked around. "Where's Barton?"

The others looked around. Clint was nowhere in sight. Suddenly, they saw multiple SHIELD tac agents run in a direction no one was looking. They looked in that direction to see a very shocking sight.

Clint was walking toward them and he was holding one of Valentina's arms. She had her wrists tied together with zipties. She was not resisting or fighting Clint's hold. The tac agents took over for him.

"Don't forget what I said, Clint", Valentina said. Everyone heard what she was saying. "You cannot stop what is coming. The gods will make sure of it."

Clint stared at her until she was put in the SUV. He sighed and looked down for a moment. Clint looked up at Fury who only nodded at him. That was not he was expecting to get from his superior.

Coulson walked over to Fury. "He ghosts you all week. He avoids getting SHIELD involved and brings together his own team", Coulson said.

Fury smirked. It was small but present. "He's the leader I want."

Yelena ran over to Clint and wrapped her arms around his neck. Clint smiled and laughed as he wrapped his arms around her waist. The two pulled back slightly and looked each other in the eyes. Clint could not hold back. He leaned forward and kissed her. Yelena smiled and moaned into the kiss.

"You guys have to do that here", Sam asked with a small smile. He knows they deserved it.

The two broke apart laughing. Clint looked at Sam. "Sorry, Sam."

Sam chuckled and shook his head as he walked away.

"I'm sorry", Yelena whispered. Clint looked at her. "I should not have said what I said."

"No, don't apologize. We both said things we regret. Let's just forget about it. Okay?"

Yelena smiled and nodded. She leaned in again and kissed him. The two started walking to the group of people talking. Clint wrapped his arm around her neck and kissed her head.

 

Christmas Morning...

 

Clint and Yelena had smiles on their faces as they watched from the kitchen Natalie play with Fanny and Lucky. The girl was playing tug of war with both dogs. Kate laughed as she tried to help the young girl.

"Valentina tricked SHIELD into thinking it was a mission", Yelena whispered. "I didn't see it coming."

"She's a master of deception", Clint whispered. "She knows how to deceive even the most well trained people."

"She knew how to trick me", Yelena said while looking down.

Clint knew what she was thinking. "Hey, look at me", he said as he put his hand on her cheek. "What happened was not your fault. Don't beat yourself up over it. Natalie is safe. You and I are still here. Valentina is in prison, finally. That's all that matters."

Yelena nodded slowly. She leaned in and kissed him before laying her head on his shoulder while they stood in the kitchen.

Someone started knocking on the door. Natalie ran over to the door. Kate was right behind her. When Natalie opened the door, her smile grew when she saw Daisy standing there.

"Aunt Daisy", she squealed.

Daisy smiled and laughed when the child jumped into her arms. She walked inside the apartment while holding Natalie. She put her niece down and walked over to the two adults in the kitchen.

Daisy hugged Yelena and Clint and got introduced to Kate. The young woman, of course, began to geek out. Clint began laughing and stopped Kate before it got out of hand. Daisy gave Natalie the gift she brought for the young girl.

Yelena walked over to the living room and sat next to Natalie on the couch. The young girl started opening the gift from Daisy. Clint walked over to Yelena, whispered something in her ear, and left the apartment.

He came back thirty minutes later with a bag. He walked over to the living room and sat down next to Yelena. Clint reached into the bag and pulled out a small box. He handed it to Natalie.

"Your Auntie Nat wanted you to have this", he said.

Yelena quirked her brow and looked at Daisy. The Inhuman only shook her head just as confused.

Natalie opened the box and pulled out a necklace. She held it up and looked at Clint. Yelena covered her mouth when she saw it. Clint smiled when he saw it.

"Do you remember that", he asked. Natalie shook her head. "Well, whenever Auntie Nat would come over to play with you, you would always play with it. She knew how much you loved it."

Natalie smiled. She handed it to Clint so he could put it around her neck. Natalie looked at her mother and smiled. Yelena smiled at the sight. She had no idea how to react to seeing Natalie wear the arrow necklace once worn by her sister.

Clint fixed the necklace and smiled at her. Natalie hugged her parents before showing it to Daisy.

"When did that happen", Yelena asked.

Clint sighed. "It's not something I wanna say right now."

Daisy saw their little interaction and came up with an idea. "How about Kate and I take the dogs for a walk? Maybe bring Natalie too?"

Natalie perked up. "Can I go, mama?"

Yelena smiled. "Go ahead, baby", she said before kissing her daughter's cheek.

Daisy grabbed Fanny's leash while Kate got Lucky ready. Natalie grabbed her coat and left with them.

Yelena cuddled up against Clint as soon as the door closed. Clint wrapped his arm around her and pulled her closer. She started to rub her hand under his shirt and across one of his scars.

"Are you going to tell me about the necklace?"

Clint sighed. He had to mentally prepare to tell the story. "Before we did the stupid time heist, Natasha said that I should put something together in case I didn't make it back. She decided to do it too."

"So, you had a gift ready in case you died?"

"Yeah", Clint said while nodding.

"What was it?" Clint reached into the bag and pulled out a small wooden box. Yelena instantly recognized it. "Your dog tags?"

Clint nodded. "I didn't want her to forget me."

Yelena thought back to when she and Natasha found the box with the death note inside. "Did you have anything for me?"

"I did. Natasha convinced me to get it shortly before the snap."

"What is it?"'

"I don't wanna say."

"Come on", Yelena said jokingly. "What is it?"

"I got you an engagement ring."

Yelena's joking smile faded. "You got me an engagement ring?"

Clint nodded. "I was struggling with proposing but then you went on that mission."

"You were going to propose to me", she managed to get out. She was really struggling with the revelation.

"Yeah, I was."

"What stopped you from doing it after I got back?"

"A lot happened. And I didn't know if you would say yes. You've never seemed excited about the idea."

"So you're still unsure?"

"Um..."

Yelena rolled her eyes. She got up to be eye level with him. "Clint Barton, are you afraid to propose to me?"

Clint's cheeks grew a bright red. "Maybe."

Yelena laughed. She climbed into his lap and put her hands on his cheeks. "Ask me now."

Clint's eyes widened. "Seriously?"

Yelena nodded. "Pull out the ring."

Clint grabbed out the box from the bag. Then he opened it for her to see.

Yelena stared at it. It was small, simple, but beautiful. She smiled at him. "It's beautiful, Clint." She leaned in and kissed him. "Yes."

"Yes?"

"Yes", she said before leaning forward and kissing him again.

 

Hours Later...

 

Clint, Yelena, and Natalie were all on the couch. Natalie was in between her parents but snuggled against Yelena's side. Natalie was peacefully asleep. Yelena was softly stroking her daughter's blonde hair.

Yelena's head was resting on Clint's shoulder. Clint kissed her head which elicited a low hum from Yelena. He smiled and laid his head on her own. He really was enjoying this moment.

As much as he wants to be 100% here with his family, he knows it is impossible. Clint's mind kept going to Valentina's threats. If she was being honest, which she probably was, then SHIELD was not going to last much longer.

Chapter 39: The Secret Initiative

Notes:

Final chapter!!! Hope you all enjoy!! PLEASE READ END NOTE

"Agent Clint Barton, please take a seat."

Clint took a seat at the table. His eyes glanced at the microphone before looking at the members of the Senate Intelligence Committee. All of the Senators were staring at him.

"In your own words, describe the events that took place January 27."

Clint began to fidget with the wedding band on his right hand. He started to contemplate the events that brought him here.

 

Three Weeks Earlier...

 

Clint kissed Yelena's neck. He kissed every inch of flesh he could. Yelena had her eyes closed and was humming and moaning at the feeling of his lips attacking her neck. Clint started to kiss lower and lower down her neck until he kissed her sternum.

Yelena's hand that was on the back of Clint's neck traveled up to his hair. Her fingers got tangled in his hair. She pulled his head back using his hair so Clint could look her in the eye.

"Are you sure we should be doing this", Yelena whispered.

Clint smiled. "You're asking that after I've already removed all your clothes?"

Yelena smiled back at him. She leaned her head down on the pillow. All her nerves were still going crazy. "What if Natalie hears us?"

"Then you better be quiet", Clint hummed against her chest.

Yelena began moaning as Clint kissed his way down her chest. Clint put extra attention on the area around her belly button. She does not know why but she loves it when he gives her attention in that spot.

Clint went lower until he disappeared beneath the sheets that covered everything beneath her waist. Yelena brought her hand up to cover her mouth. She did not want to scream or make any other noise that would risk waking up Natalie.

After a few minutes, Clint started to kiss his way back up Yelena's body. When Clint got up to her face, he leaned down and kissed her. He chuckled when he noticed she was still trying to catch her breath.

Without hesitation, Yelena wrapped her arms around his neck. She wrapped her shaking legs around his waist and flipped them over so she was on top of him. They both laughed lightly.

Yelena leaned down to his ear. "It's my turn to be in control", she whispered seductively as she traced a finger up and down Clint's scarred chest.

Clint shivered. "Whatever you want", he whispered back.

After an hour of fun, Yelena was comfortably lying in Clint's arms. He was gently rubbing her naked back. Yelena nuzzled her face against Clint's chest and hummed. Clint smiled and kissed her head.

Clint's phone started buzzing with the alarm he had set the night before. He turned his body to grab his phone. He turned back to keep Yelena where she was. He turned off the alarm and set the phone down on the bed.

Clint sighed. "Dammit."

Yelena looked up at him. "Do you have to leave?"

Clint nodded. "Unfortunately, yes." Clint picked up the phone again and checked the time. "Alpha Team should be back in an hour."

"And you have to meet them?"

"And I want to meet them. There's a difference."

Yelena propped herself up on her elbow to be eye to eye with her husband. "What is it you are hoping they bring back?"

"I'm not sure."

Clint started thinking about the different possibilities of what Alpha Team could bring back. After Valentina's arrest, Clint has put all his attention on finding the remnants of Poseidon's Blood.

Two days ago, Alpha Team was sent to take down a Blood hideout and bring back whatever they could. The base was the last one SHIELD knew about. Because of that, everyone believed it was over. Clint, however, did not believe that.

"I hope it's a location on another base", Clint said. He cupped Yelena's cheek before kissing her. Then he climbed out of bed.

"You really don't think it's over, do you", she asked as she watched him go into the bathroom to start the shower.

"I know it's not", he said before closing the door.

Clint stepped out of the shower a few minutes later. He did what he had to do in the bathroom then walked back into the bedroom. He saw Yelena had fallen asleep. He could not blame her, it was 5:50 in the morning. She did not have to be up for a few hours.

After putting on his uniform and kissing Yelena's cheek, he walked to Natalie's room. Clint quietly opened the door and walked inside. He sat down on the bed and stared at his sleeping daughter. He brought his hand to her cheek and lightly brushed the hair out of her face.

"I love you, baby", he whispered before leaning down to kiss her cheek.

Clint carefully rose from Natalie's bed and walked to the door. He closed it and quietly left the apartment. That was a routine he has become accustomed to in the past month. Clint's new routine is also why Yelena was up as early as she was with him.

He walked to his SUV and started driving to the Triskelion. The drive was silent. Clint had the windows so it was cold but he did not mind. In fact, he actually enjoyed the brisk early morning air.

When Clint arrived, he instantly walked to his office. He let out an exasperated sigh upon arrival, and it was not even because Fury was sitting at his desk.

"You're clearly happy to be here", Fury said.

Clint smirked. "You know how much I love the mornings."

Fury rose from Clint's chair. He walked over to the conference table covered in Poseidon's Blood files. "Where are you with this?"

Clint walked over to his desk. "Nothing has changed since the last time you asked."

Fury's eye panned over the table. He turned to look at Clint and slowly walked toward the desk. "I trust you, Barton. You know I do, but I need to know if you really think there is more to it."

Clint thought for a second. Then he faced his director. "Sir, I know there's more to it."

"Tell me how you know."

Clint walked to the conference table and examined the different files. There was one photo he specifically needed to find. When he found the photo, he grabbed it and handed it to Fury. "That's how I know."

Fury examined the photo of the missiles. "Missiles? Missiles are your proof?"

"Missiles that Blood have had in their possession for years and haven't used."

Fury took a deep breath through his nose. "What do you need to confirm your suspicions?"

Clint walked over to his desk. "Well, hopefully Alpha Team will bring back some information."

"If not?"

Clint stared at an empty spot on his desk. "I'll speak to Valentina."

Fury put the photo down and walked over to Clint. "Are you sure about that?"

"I may not have a choice, Sir."

"You want to go talk to the one person in the world that I've seen has the ability to get under your skin? Do you remember what she has done to you?"

"Of course I remember what she did to me. I have permanent reminders of what she did. The problem is she won't talk to anyone but me."

"I don't like that plan."

Before Clint could reply, his phone buzzed. He picked it up and read the alert. "Alpha Team is back. I need to go debrief them." Clint walked out of his office.

Clint spent the next two hours debriefing one of the four teams he was in command of. He was not as pleased with their results as he had hoped. Once they were all debriefed, he sent them home.

Now he knows he has no choice but to talk to Valentina, but first he had to clear it with the director. By clearing it, Clint means to tell Fury he has to go to the Raft. Fury was not happy to hear Clint say that.

Clint boarded the quinjet and started the engines. Before taking off, Clint sent a text to Yelena about what he was doing. She replied quickly with a text that told Clint exactly how she felt about the idea.

The quinjet slowly rose from the landing pad and took off in the direction of the ocean. Clint reclined back knowing it was going to be a long flight. And a very bad decision.

Not long after Clint left, Yelena walked into the Triskelion shooting range. She saw Daisy showing Jemma how to take apart a gun. She also saw Fitz standing at the table with the women. She walked over to them.

After a few minutes of talking, Yelena and Daisy began helping the two scientists with their shooting. They wanted to get more involved in the field so Coulson ordered Daisy and Yelena to help them.

Once Jemma and Fitz got the hang of what it was that the two agents were teaching them, Daisy and Yelena walked away from them. Daisy could tell that her friend was distracted by something.

'What is going on with you", Daisy asked when she and Yelena were out of ear shot of Jemma and Fitz.

"Nothing", Yelena replied almost automatically.

Daisy rolled her eyes. "Don't do that, Yelena. I know something's bothering you."

Yelena sighed. "Do you know where Clint is?"

Daisy shook her head. "No. I assume his office."

"He's not in his office. He's on his way to the Raft."

"The Raft? Why?" Daisy tried to think of what Clint would want to do there. Then she realized who else was there. "Oh. He's going to talk to Valentina?"

Yelena nodded. "He thinks she can give him answers."

Daisy sighed. "He really thinks it's not over."

"Valentina is the only person who can give him answers", Yelena said while turning her head to look at the two scientists. "If she doesn't agitate him first."

Daisy looked down. She could see Clint's decision had hurt Yelena. She knew she had to change the subject. "How's Natalie doing with the whole heightened senses thing?"

A small smile crept on Yelena's face. "She's adjusting to it."

Both women started to laugh.

"Is Clint helping her adjust", Daisy asked when the laughter stopped.

Yelena nodded. "When he can. He said it was difficult to adjust on his own so he's glad he can help her."

"That's good", Daisy replied. "Is she questioning any of it?"

Yelena's smile grew. "Not really. She keeps saying that it is sometimes odd, but a lot of fun."

Daisy chuckled. "I would find it a lot of fun too."

"Yeah. It keeps Clint and I from being able to do certain things though unless we are very quiet."

"Gross", Daisy said.

Yelena snorted.

LOCATION: The Raft
TIME: 10:16

Clint walked passed security and walked to the cells. His eyes wandered to the many empty cells. Then he got to one of the occupied cells. The man inside it turned around and stared at Clint.

"Hello, Clint Barton", the man said with a Sokovian accent.

"Zemo", Clint replied before he continued to walk.

Clint kept walking passed the cells until he got to a solitary one at the end of the hallway. Clint looked around. It was nothing but a dark room. The only light came from inside the cell. Then he looked at the person standing inside. Well, looking at her back anyway.

"Clint Barton", Valentina said. Clint did not reply. Valentina slowly turned around. "I was expecting you sooner."

Clint smirked. "Sorry I disappointed you. I had other matters to attend to."

"Like a daughter? How is Natalie?"

"Away from your grasp. So, she's good."

"Don't be like that, Clint. I just want to catch up."

"That's not happening."

"Fine. What do you want?"

"Zeus, Poseidon, and Hades, where are they?"

"Probably in Olympus. Hades might be in hell though."

Clint stepped closer to the cell. "Don't be smart. You know what I'm talking about."

"Of course I do. You're referring to the missiles."

"Where are they?"

Valentina turned her head to the side. "I can't seem to remember."

Clint clenched his fists and stepped even closer to the cell. "You really think I'm going to believe that?"

"I don't know what you believe. I do know that if you're here, then SHIELD has taken all the bases that were on the map."

"The facility with the missiles aren't on any of the Blood systems is it?"

"No, it's not."

"Where is it?"

Valentina smirked. "Answer one question first."

"What?"

"What time is it? There's no clock in here so I never know what time it is."

Clint rolled his eyes. "It's 10:30", he said looking at his watch.

Valentina's creepy smile grew. "You will find out soon enough where the missiles are."

Clint quirked his brow. "What do you mean?" Valentina did not respond. Clint got inches away from the cell. "What do you mean?" No response. Clint pounded his fist on the cell. "What do you mean", he yelled.

All of a sudden Clint's phone started ringing. Clint pulled out his phone and read the caller ID, 'Director Fury'.

"I would answer that if I were you", Valentina said. "It may be important."

Clint stared at her for a moment before answering. "Sir?"

Valentina watched as Clint's face slowly dropped. She smiled. Clint slowly turned his head to look at her. Then Clint slowly put his phone down.

"Bad news", she asked teasingly.

Clint scowled at her. "You knew this was going to happen. This was your plan."

Valentina chuckled. "Today is your day of reckoning, Clint Barton."

Clint did not reply. He spun around and started running away from the cell. He got to the quinjet and took off.

He returned to the Triskelion in record time. He ran down the ramp and ran straight to the elevators. Clint went straight to the room where he knew everyone was gathered. He passed many frantic agents on the way.

When he entered the room full of analysts and agents, Clint saw his superiors plus May, Daisy, and Yelena in a small huddle. He also Sam, in his uniform, in the group. Clint completely forgot Sam was coming to speak with him.

Clint turned his head to look at the giant screen on the wall. He could not take his eyes off of the screen. He could feel people stand on either side of him, but he did not acknowledge them.

"We should've listened to you", Coulson said.

Clint did not pay any attention to what Coulson said. "Do we know how many?"

"Not yet. We're still trying to get everything under control", Hill said.

"These missiles came out of nowhere", May said.

"How many facilities were hit", Clint asked.

"All of them", Fury said.

"Every SHIELD facility except this one was hit", Daisy said.

"Day of reckoning", Clint mumbled.

"You knew that the missiles were still a threat", Fury said. "We didn't listen." Clint turned to look at his director. "This is your mission. You're calling the shots now, Barton."

Clint turned back to look at the room full of analysts and agents. Clint sighed. "May, you and Hill begin evacuating all personnel starting with the ones who absolutely do not need to be here."

"Copy", May said without questioning his order. She and Hill left the room in a hurry.

"Why are you evacuating the Triskelion", Sam asked.

Clint ignored Sam. "Jefferson", he yelled.

"Sir", an analyst said.

"Call back all quinjets."

"Sir?"

Clint looked at the analyst. "You heard me, Jefferson. Call back all quinjets."

"Yes, Sir." The analyst started contacting the pilots of the quinjets flying around D.C.

"Clint, what are you doing", Coulson asked.

"If missiles are detected, we are not blowing them up over D.C. If they do come, I hope they come from the East."

"Explain", Daisy said.

"After American Airlines flight 77 struck the Pentagon on September 11, 2001, not to mention the other shit that happened that day, much of D.C became a no fly zone. Anything unauthorized to be in D.C airspace will be immediately shot down."

"Don't we want the missiles shot down", Yelena asked.

"Destroying those missiles over D.C will still cause a mass casualty event", Sam said.

"How", Daisy asked.

"Because of all the explosives packed inside. That's why I'm evacuating the Triskelion."

"You're going to let the missiles strike", Fury said. The analysts and agents nearby stopped working and looked at Clint.

"If missiles are what Valentina sent."

Suddenly, Fury got an alert on his phone. He looked at it. "The Council is making contact."

Clint nodded. "Go, I can handle this."

"I need Hill."

"I'll tell her to meet you."

Fury walked out of the control room and went to the elevators. He passed a large number of agents leaving.

"You're going to want to make sure that the Military doesn't shoot down the missiles", Sam said.

"Good point", Clint said. "Call Rhodey and tell him to make sure no one engages the missiles."

Sam nodded and walked away to call Rhodey.

"What about the rest of us", Coulson asked.

Clint thought for a second. "Daisy, get Bravo, Charlie, and Delta geared up. I want only experienced hands on this."

"Copy that", Daisy said. Daisy walked out of the room.

"You're expecting a ground assault", Coulson said.

"I'm preparing for one. I only want agents who have fought Blood before to be here."

"You're going to need my team."

Clint looked at him. "Who's here?"

"Mackenzie, Morse, Hunter, and Fitzsimmons."

"I don't fell comfortable keeping Fitzsimmons here."

"They can handle it", Yelena said.

Clint looked at his wife for a brief moment. He looked back at Coulson. "Get them to the tac room with my Strike teams and Daisy. I'll send you specs on Phase Two armor."

"Understood", Coulson said before walking out.

"And us", Sam asked standing next to Yelena.

Clint looked at them. "Go with Coulson. He's going to need your help."

Sam and Yelena started walking to the door but Yelena stopped. She nodded to Sam to keep going. Yelena walked back to Clint.

"Can we talk", Yelena asked.

"Not now", Clint replied.

Yelena was too annoyed to deal with his attitude. She grabbed his arm and pulled him to the corner. "We're gonna talk."

"Okay, what is it?"

"Are you okay?"

Clint quirked his brow. "What?"

Yelena brought her fingerless gloved hands up to his cheek. She started stroking his cheek with her thumb. "Are you okay?"

Clint's attitude softened when he knew what she was asking. Clint brought his hand up to cover her own. "No, I'm not. I knew this attack was coming but wasn't fast enough to stop it."

Yelena pushed herself up slightly to kiss him. Both of them savoring the feeling of the other. Then they broke apart. Yelena's hand dropped down when she stepped back.

"It's going to be okay", she whispered.

Clint could only nod.

He watched Yelena run out of the room. Clint turned his attention back to the large screen. He watched the agents and analysts work for a few minutes before May walked inside.

"Where are we", Clint asked.

"60% evacuated give or take. It's difficult to evacuate a building like this. I think everyone has the gist of it though."

"Get to the tac room. Coulson's gearing up for a possible ground assault."

"Is that necessary?"

"I don't want to be caught with our guard down if we're still evacuating."

"Understood." May ran out of the room.

"Everyone out now", Clint yelled. "Evacuate with the others."

The analysts and agents in the control room started to leave out the exits. Clint, however, stayed in the room. He walked to one of the computers and pulled up the different security camera feeds.

May arrived to the tac room just in time. Everyone was almost finished gearing up. Some agents, like Yelena, Daisy, and Bobbi, were already geared up and ready. They do not like to carry much.

Coulson walked over to May and held out a gun. "You're going to need this."

"If I need one, I'll take one."

"Normally, I would be okay with that but not today. Take the gun."

May reluctantly took the gun. "Fine."

Coulson walked to the center of the room. "Alright, listen up." Everyone in the room looked at him. "Everyone in this room has been given a blind security clearance. That means you have access to every floor and room in the building. Agent Barton is preparing for ground assault teams."

"He knows that for sure", Hunter asked.

"Nothing has been detected in the air. Agent Barton has ordered the Triskelion to be evacuated. Our objective is clear every floor. No agent of ours is left behind. Blood may take the opportunity to use the chaos to get into the building. Lethal weapons only. Phase Two armor is strong and according to Agent Barton's schematics, the initial weakness is the neck. We have to be careful with our ammunition. Aim for the neck and conserve ammo. Understood?"

"Yes, Sir", they all yelled.

"Delta One, come here", Coulson said.

Delta One walked over to Coulson. "Sir?"

"Barton has given Delta Team a special objective." Coulson grabbed a crate and handed it to One.

Delta One grabbed the crate. "Explosives?"

Clint watched all the different security feeds. Each one showed the same thing, people trying to leave the Triskelion. He saw nothing that looked out of the ordinary. Not for this type of situation anyway.

His eyes landed on the video feed of an empty hallway on the 25th floor. He was about to keep going but then he saw something. A figure walked down the hallway carrying something. He set the object down and ran away.

"What the hell", Clint muttered.

Without warning, the object exploded. It shook a few floors above and below the 25th floor. It was not strong enough to shake the control room but he still felt it. He looked up when it went off.

He looked at the camera footage and saw multiple cameras on the 25th floor were down. Clint grabbed his phone about to call Coulson but something caught his attention. Other people, on different floors, were putting objects down and running away.

Clint's eyes wandered to the cameras showing footage of the entrances. His eyes widened. Multiple Blood agents were entering the Triskelion. They were also killing SHIELD agents as they were leaving. He saw two Taskmasters enter one of the entrances.

"I hate being right", Clint mumbled.

Clint removed his gun from the holster and shot the different computers in the room. He knows there is no way they could defend the Triskelion. He is not going to let them get their hands on any of the information SHIELD has.

He walked out of the control room and went in the direction of the stairs. He could feel some of the explosions occurring. One or two that have gone off making it difficult for Clint to keep his footing. On his way to the stairwell, Clint saw someone dressed as a SHIELD analyst set an object down.

"Hey", Clint yelled.

The guy looked up and saw Clint coming toward him. The guy turned around and ran away. Clint ran after him but stopped when he saw the object. Clint crouched down and examined it without touching it.

"An IED", Clint whispered. Then the object started beeping. "Oh shit." Clint started running to the stairwell. Then the object blew causing Clint to fly forward a few yards. He hit the ground hard. He also got knocked out.

"How many does that make", Yelena asked as the Blood agent dropped to the ground.

"Eight", Sam said.

"Out of who knows how many", Mack said.

"I'm not able to reach Barton", Coulson said.

"Great", Daisy said sarcastically. "Blood is attacking, our base is exploding, and we can't contact Clint. Can this get any worse?"

Coulson, at the front of their group, stopped walking. "You had to ask that, didn't you?"

Everyone in the group looked in front of them to see a Taskmaster standing in their path. They all raised their guns at the Taskmaster. He did not move. He did not reach for a weapon. He just stood there.

The Taskmaster scanned each of their faces. He took a step back, turned, and walked away from them. The group looked at one another. They all shared the same confused face.

"Is that normal", Hunter asked.

"Not in any way", Sam said.

"He's on a mission", Daisy said. Everyone looked at her. "He has an objective. The only reason he'd ignore us is because he's been given a different mission than the other Blood agents."

"Fantastic", Fitz said. "Are we going after him?"

"Not unless you want a quick and painful death", Yelena said.

"I'm okay", Hunter said answering for everyone.

"Let's get moving. With Blood in the building and our other facilities destroyed, this has gone from an evacuation to a fight for survival."

"What about the Taskmaster", Mack asked.

"Barton will handle it", May said.

Clint slowly opened his eyes. He let out a low groan as he slowly flipped himself to lay on his back. His eyes were firmly planted on the ceiling. There were panels hanging down, wires and cables sticking swinging, and more debris and damage.

His whole body ached as he pushed himself up to his feet. Clint stumbled but caught himself before falling. He brought his hand to his chest and hissed. He felt like he had a few bruised ribs. He could also feel blood start to trickle down his head.

Clint took a few deep breaths to prepare himself. After one more deep, but very painful, breath, he went to the stairs. His goal was to get to his office.

After going up the multiple flights of stairs, he got to the floor where his office was located. Clint walked to his office but stopped just outside the door when he saw two Blood agents inside his office. He was not in the mood to draw this out.

Clint pulled out his knife and walked into his office. Without hesitation, Clint grabbed the arm of one of the agents and spun him around. Clint sliced the agent's throat. The agent dropped to the ground.

The other agent turned to face Clint. The SHIELD agent knocked the laser rifle out of the agent's hands. The agent attempted to grab his own knife, but Clint plunged his knife into the man's neck. That agent also fell to the ground.

Clint walked over to his desk and stood behind it. He opened one of the drawers and pulled out a secondary magazine for his gun. Then he walked to a filing cabinet in the corner. He opened the top drawer, pulled out a small box, and removed some of its contents.

He put the items in his pocket. He walked over to one of the dead agents and crouched down. Clint removed the helmet and grabbed his earpiece. He put the earpiece in his own ear and listened to the chatter.

Clint's eyes widened when he discovered their plan.

Clint rose from his crouched position and walked to the door. He removed the earpiece and threw it down. Suddenly, he felt another explosion above him. He held onto the door frame for stability as the building shook. Just then, another explosion rocked the Triskelion. That one was not as close but he still felt it.

Once all the shaking stopped, Clint saw bodies of some SHIELD agents who never made it out. He could see burned holes in their bodies.

Clint sighed and looked down. "I'm so sorry", he said outloud.

Clint made his way back to the stairwell. His body could not support him moving this much but he had no choice. He had to get to the director's office. He had a long way to go because there were Blood agents in the stairwell with him.

Coulson and his team took cover in a few rooms because they were being shot at by Blood agents. They were trying to return fire as best they could. The Phase Two armor made it difficult for their bullets to be effective. Plus, aiming for the neck was proving to be more difficult than they first thought.

The Blood agents continued to advance forward. Sam was the only one who did not have a gun. He did have an upper hand the others did not have, though. Sam closed his eyes and took a deep breath.

When Sam heard the agent closest to the room he was in, Sam swung his arm with the shield out and tripped the agent. The agent fell flat on his face. Sam sprang out and hit the agent on the back of the neck with the shield.

Sam looked up at the six or seven other agents They all looked at him. Coulson and his team stopped firing because Sam was in the line of fire.

Sam tightened the straps of the shield around his arm. The agents raised their guns and started shooting. Sam blocked their shots with his shield. He ran toward an agent, then slammed him against the wall.

He swiftly turned around and blocked the gunfire. Sam knew going through each agent one by one could get him killed. He activated the thrusters on his pack and flew forward. Sam. slammed into an agent making the agent fly back a few yards and hit the ground.

Sam spun around and used the shield to knock a rifle out of the agent's arms. He kicked the agent against the wall. Another agent, behind Sam, aimed his gun at Sam but was blasted through the wall into an empty room.

Sam turned his head to see Daisy walk into the room she blasted the agent into. Then he heard a gunshot. Sam blocked the blasts from the remaining agents gunfire. He provided enough cover to allow Daisy to blast them back. The rest of their team got out from behind cover and shot the Blood agents who were on the floor.

"We have to move", Coulson said.

The team started to move carefully again through the halls. Yelena was behind the rest of them and looked around. She saw the bodies of some SHIELD agents laying on the ground. She could see some had deep wounds caused by a blade on their torso and back.

She knows it was a Taskmaster. Yelena's heart sank at the thought of Clint going against the Taskmaster alone. She knows he can hold his own against it but she also knows that right now, he cannot keep a clear head.

Clint pushed the agent into the stairwell door while simultaneously plunging a knife into his throat. He removed the knife and the agent slid down the door. Clint moved his body before opening the door to the top floor with Fury's office.

Clint quietly walked through the floor. There was not much on the floor except Fury's office and empty rooms. Suddenly, he felt another explosion rock the Triskelion. This one was somewhere in the top floors. Clint fell to his knees and braced against the wall.

After the shaking subsided, Clint leaned his head against the wall. His head was pounding and his chest felt like someone was pushing against it with a cinder block. He closed his eyes and breathed through his nose in an effort to slow his erratic heartbeat.

Clint's heartbeat started to steady. Then he started to hear something. It was not the thud of his heartbeat. It sounded like someone being punched. Clint kept his mouth shut tight to avoid screaming as he got to his feet.

His head was still pounding and he was short of breath, but he kept a steady pace to Fury's office. When he arrived at the director's door, he saw it was kicked in. Clint poked his head into the room to see the Taskmaster punching Fury. Two Blood agents were on either side of them.

"Valentina has ordered your death", the Taskmaster said. He raised his fist and a small blade extended from the gauntlet.

Clint reacted quickly. He removed the hilt from his pocket and extended the blade. Clint ran at the Taskmaster, completely ignoring the two Blood agents, and plunged the sword into the Taskmaster's back and through his chest.

The two Blood agents were surprised by the sudden attack. Clint pulled out his gun from the holster and shot both agents in the neck. Single shot each was all he needed. He holstered the gun.

"Sir", Clint said as he crouched down to help the injured director.

"Barton", Fury said as he wrapped an arm Clint to stand. "What the hell is going on?"

"Blood's blowing up the Triskelion." Clint pulled his sword out of the Taskmaster. "And they sent multiple assault teams to ensure your death."

"At least you took down the Taskmaster."

"He wasn't the only one. "There's another one somewhere."

"Great."

Fury leaned heavily against Clint as they walked, or limped in this case, their way to the stairwell. Clint pulled out his gun and kept it out just in case they encountered agents on the way down.

"Where's Hill", Clint asked.

"I sent her on another assignment just before the first explosion."

"I hope she made it out", Clint whispered.

Sam kicked the agent into the wall before hitting him in the chest with the shield. Yelena and Daisy were in hand to hand fights with a few agents. Jemma and Fitz were with Coulson and May clearing out the rest of the floor that was not already occupied.

Bobbi blocked the electric staff with her baton. She grabbed the agent's arm and flipped him over her. Hunter shot an agent charging at him and the agent fell to the ground. Mack was beating an agent that managed to disarm him of his shotgun. The three of them were on the same floor as the others but in a different location.

After six minutes, they all regrouped near the stairwell.

"The floor is clear", Coulson said.

Yelena snorted. "Do you see the bodies on the floor? It was not clear."

"But it is now", Coulson retorted.

All of a sudden, they started to shake and heard an explosion a few floors below them. The floor they were on was already blown up so some of the debris had fallen during the current explosion. Electric cables came lose and were swinging around.

"We have to get out of here", May said.

"There are still more floors to check", Daisy said.

"It doesn't matter", Sam said. "This place is gonna collapse soon."

They all heard a door open and close. That stopped their conversation. Instantly, they all grabbed their guns and aimed in the direction of the noise. Sam was in front of the group to provide cover. No one made a sound.

Clint held out his gun as he and Fury walked through the door. Both men took notice of the Blood agents on the ground. They walked a few feet before turning a corner. Clint was relieved to see Coulson and the others standing there. Everyone else was relieved and put their guns down too.

They all ran over to Clint and Fury when they noticed Fury was badly injured, careful of the dangling cables and debris. Coulson and Mack took Clint's place in helping Fury. They leaned the director against a more stable wall to rest a moment. Yelena grabbed Clint's hand and pulled him aside.

"Are you okay", she asked as she examined his face.

Clint slowly nodded. "I'm okay", he lied. The pounding in his head has only gotten worse.

"Are you sure? You're bleeding."

"I promise I'm fine."

"What is going on", May asked outloud. "Why blow up the Triskelion but send in assault teams?"

"They're after Fury", Clint said.

"Why", Sam asked.

Clint looked at everyone then made eye contact with Fury. "They want him dead. SHIELD dies when he dies. If he lives then SHIELD lives."

"Then we just have to get the director out of the building", Mack said.

"Simple", May added.

"Simple? There are who knows how many Blood agents between us and the door", Fitz said.

"You don't need to leave out the door. There are still available quinjets on landing pad 7. Get the director out of here", Clint said.

"What are you going to do", Coulson asked.

"Distract the agents."

"Alone", Yelena asked.

"Yes."

"Clint, you're clearly injured. We aren't letting you go alone", Daisy said.

Before Clint had a chance to reply, he heard a faint sound from behind him. It sounded like tactical boots against the floor, only one pair. Clint quickly removed his gun from the holster. Without turning around, he raised his gun and fired in the direction of the sound. As if on que, a Blood agent came out from behind the corner and instantly got hit in the neck by the bullet. The agent fell to the ground.

Everyone had shocked faces. Even Fury, May, and Coulson were shocked. All their eyes traveled from the Blood agent's body to Clint's eyes. His eyes never left them during the whole interaction.

"What kind of Han Solo no look shit was that", Daisy asked.

Clint smirked as he put his gun back in the holster. "I can handle it. All of you get the director out of here."

They watched Clint turn around and walk away. When he turned the corner to the stairwell, they finally snapped out of their shock. The group started to go to the stairs too. Mack and Coulson helped Fury walk to the stairs. Coulson also started to order the strike teams to get to landing pad 7.

"Did you see the anger in his eyes when he shot that agent", Fitz asked Jemma.

"I can't blame him. If I had been hunting Poseidon's Blood for as long as he has, I would be angry too", Jemma said.

Clint found a dead Blood agent in the stairs and grabbed his radio. He started talking into it to get their attention. He knew it was working because when he opened the door to the floor directly below him, multiple Blood agents were shooting at him.

He was not in the mood to hide and have a shootout with them. He removed the hilt from his pocket and activated the blade. He also removed something else from his pocket.

Clint looked down at the object in his hand, an arrowhead. He took a few deep breaths. He activated the arrowhead and threw it at them. The arrowhead blew up with a small blast wave to knock the agents down.

He ran at the agents. The first few were not able to react fast enough to Clint's attack. The agents that were able to stand up tried with no avail to defend themselves. It was not Clint who was attacking them, but rather, the Ghost.

The team arrived on the floor with access to the landing pad. Now they just had to get to the quinjet. With two of them helping Fury, and two others not being the best in the field, they were not at their strongest. They got as close to the landing pad doors as they could to see Blood agents by the door. There was also distant gunfire, so Blood agents were engaged in fire fight with tac agents.

Some of the Blood agents by the doors saw the huddled mass of SHIELD agents and Captain America. They raised their guns and started shooting at them. Sam blocked what he could so everyone could get to cover.

Yelena took cover away from the rest of the group. She was done hiding. The Blood agents walked toward the larger group. Yelena was the only one not returning fire.

She quietly activated her batons so she did not attract their attention. Yelena got out from cover and attacked the agent closest to her. She knocked the gun out of his hand. Yelena, then, kicked his knee. He screamed before Yelena kicked him in the chest. He stumbled back but stayed on his feet.

This attracted the attention of the other Blood agents. One agent aimed his gun at Yelena, but she used the injured agent as a shield when he fired. Another agent threw his gun to the side and grabbed out his knife.

Yelena saw the agent with the knife coming at her. She dodged his first few attacks before grabbing his arm. He was very strong, but Yelena had a plan. Still holding onto his arm, she dropped down onto her back. Yelena quickly flipped around, grabbed the agent's knife, and plunged it into his neck.

Another agent saw Yelena was distracted and aimed at her. What he did not see was May grab the gun off the floor that the now dead agent threw away. She was faster than the Blood agent. She pulled the trigger and shot the agent three times.

Yelena quickly got back up to her feet. She still had one baton in her hand. There was one more Blood agent firing at them. Yelena's grip on the baton tightened. She ran to the Blood agent who was shooting at her team.

She kicked the gun to the side to get him to stop firing at them. He quickly reacted by throwing a punch. Yelena dodged the punch. She kicked him in the knee just like she did the other agent. He dropped down to one knee. Before he could do anything else, Yelena hit him across the face with her baton. She heard a loud crack when his head twisted.

"Damn", Daisy said as Yelena turned to face them.

"What's gotten into her", Jemma asked.

'We can ask her later", May said. "Let's get to the quinjet."

"What about Clint", Sam asked.

"We're just gonna have to trust him", Fury said.

Clint swung his sword and cut the agent's throat. The agent gasped for air as he stumbled against the wall and slid down it lifeless. Clint stared at the body for a second before looking up. He was surrounded by the bodies of many dead Blood agents.

Clint brought the blade up to be eye level. It was covered in fresh blood and some of that blood was trickling down it. His uniform and face were also stained with blood.

He closed his eyes and smiled. Something about all this massacre felt good. It felt freeing. It felt right. He opened his eyes and looked around at the bodies. He began walking down the hall of the floor he was on.

Clint knows he attracted the attention of most agents but not all of them. He had to search for those agents. He was also searching for the other Taskmaster he knows is somewhere in the Triskelion.

He killed a few more agents that were on that floor. When he got to the last agent on that floor, Clint brought him to the brink of death. Clint grabbed his throat and forced the agent against the wall.

"You're going to tell me what I want to know", Clint growled.

The agent struggled but managed to nod.

"Good." Clint let go of the man's throat. He coughed as he tried to catch his breath. "Where is the Taskmaster?"

The agent took a second to compose himself. "13th floor."

Clint quirked his brow. "What does he want with records?"

"I don't know."

Clint wasted no time in plunging the sword into the man's chest. He removed the sword and started walking to the stairs. His head and body were physically telling him to stop. He was too injured to keep going. Mentally, he was not listening.

He walked down the stairs to the 13th floor. On his way down, he felt two more explosions rock the Triskelion. Neither was close enough to effect his stability. He could tell though by the dust that fell during the explosions that the Triskelion is close to collapse.

Clint opened the door to the 13th floor and looked around. There was not much to see. Clint, however, knew where the Taskmaster went. The central hub for the records floor was located in the center of the floor.

When he arrived to the large room, he saw the door was open. He also heard the sound of metal clanking against the floor. Clint silently walked into the room.

Large servers surrounded the walls that were not windows. In the middle of the room were desks with computers. Out of the ordinary, there were ceiling beams and panels, and other debris on the floor. Clint knows he does not have long.

Clint saw the Taskmaster standing at a computer and he was not facing the door. Clint walked further into the room, his eyes firmly planted on the Taskmaster.

The Taskmaster looked up from the computer screen and slowly turned his head to the side. He slowly turned his whole body around to completely face Clint.

"I've been waiting for you", the Taskmaster said.

"You were waiting?"

The Taskmaster laughed. "Did you really think Valentina would send Taskmasters after just Nick Fury? You're mine, Clint Barton."

"Many have tried, but all have failed."

"Things have changed. Valentina has made improvements to the Taskmaster project. Improvements that GHOST Protocol cannot save you from."

Clint's grip on the hilt of his sword tightened. "We'll see about that", a voice inside Clint's head said.

The Taskmaster removed his sword from its hiding place and charged at Clint. The SHIELD agent dodged the attack. Clint blocked the attacks of the Taskmaster. They were both moving very fast. They were both blocking or dodging the attack of the other.

Clint was flipping over the computer desks. The Taskmaster was kicking and shoving things out of his way. Both men were destroying or servers when they did engage one another.

Clint's head was severely pounding, his chest was stinging, and he was becoming tired. He was beginning to think the Taskmaster was right, there are improvements. Clint could not find an opening in the Taskmaster's fighting style.

The Taskmaster kept swinging his sword, not allowing Clint to go on the offensive. Clint faltered in his defense and the Taskmaster noticed it. The Taskmaster knocked Clint's sword out of his hand. The Taskmaster quickly punched Clint and he flew a few feet.

The Taskmaster put his sword back and walked toward Clint. The Taskmaster grabbed Clint by the arm and threw him into some of the servers. Clint grunted in pain when he hit the floor. Clint tried to push himself up but the Taskmaster kicked him in the chest. Clint grunted again when he hit the ground again.

The Taskmaster gave Clint no time to breathe as he picked Clint up by the collar and threw him into the computer desks. Some of the computers fell to the ground. Clint managed to get to his feet. The Taskmaster, however, was faster. The Taskmaster kicked Clint on the side of the head. Clint fell to the ground.

He tried to push himself up but he was not strong enough. He did manage to flip himself over onto his back. Clint brought his hand to his face and felt blood. He knew the wounds were only getting worse. He also noticed something else, he could not hear anything. Clint literally could not hear a thing. He could not even hear a ringing; it was just silence.

The Taskmaster walked over to Clint and planted his foot on Clint's chest. Clint screamed in pain. He could not hear his own scream. The Taskmaster lifted his fist and a blade extended from the gauntlet.

"Now you will die", the Taskmaster said.

Clint did not hear what he said but he can read lips so he got the gist of it.

All of a sudden, the room started to shake as another explosion occurred. It was powerful enough for the Taskmaster to stumble off Clint. Ceiling beams started to fall and crash into the room and into some of the servers causing sparks and small fires.

Clint used the shaking of the room to roll under the nearest desk to put distance between him and the Taskmaster. Once distance was established, Clint grabbed a piece of debris and threw it at the Taskmaster's helmet.

The Taskmaster stumbled back upon impact. Clint proceeded to jump over the desk he rolled under and tackled the Taskmaster to the ground. Clint's whole body disagreed with him but he was filled with rage and adrenaline. Clint punched his helmet over and over again until it became damaged enough for Clint to tear it off.

Face to face, Clint punched the man's face repeatedly. The Taskmaster activated the blade in his gauntlet and cut Clint's leg. Clint became distracted by the wound so the Taskmaster threw Clint off of him.

The Taskmaster quickly rose to his feet. He started to swing at Clint again and cut the archer on the arm and along the chest. The Taskmaster kicked Clint into a ceiling beam and Clint dropped to the ground.

Clint saw his sword a few inches from his hand. He smiled. Clint grabbed the sword just in time to block the blade coming straight to his face. Clint kicked the Taskmaster back and stood up. He removed another arrowhead from his pocket, activated it, and threw it at the Taskmaster. The elite Blood agent was suddenly enveloped by smoke.

Clint charged at the Taskmaster. He plunged the sword into the Taskmaster's chest. The Taskmaster, at the same time, cut Clint on the lower chest. The Taskmaster dropped to his knees then fell completely to the ground.

Clint stumbled back against the wall. He slowly slid down it. When he hit the floor, he rubbed his hand against his chest and hissed. He looked at his bloody hand as his breathing was hard and shallow. He was so weak and tired. His head was pounding like it was about to burst. He still could not hear anything. Clint's eyes slowly started closed. He tried to keep them open but he failed. As the room continued to fall apart, Clint's body leaned against a server and he passed out.

"Redwing still can't see Clint anywhere on the landing pad", Sam said.

They were all in a quinjet that was circling the Triskelion. The ramp of the quinjet was down and they were all staring at their headquarters falling apart. May and Bobbi were piloting the quinjet.

"We have to find him", Coulson said. "It's going to collapse soon."

Sam began thinking. "What if he's not at the landing pad", he asked silently. Sam deployed two more redwings and they all scanned the building. "I got him. He's on the 13th floor. He's not moving."

"That's not good", Daisy said. She looked over at Yelena who had a defeated look on her face. Yelena was on the verge of crying. Daisy put an arm on Yelena's shoulder.

"We need to get out of here", May said. "What's the plan?"

Everyone started to voice their opinion. It seemed to create opposing sides. Sam was the only silent one. He was staring at the Triskelion. He turned around, grabbed his shield, and walked to the edge of the ramp.

"Wilson, what are you doing", Fury asked.

Sam did not reply. He just dove out of the quinjet surprising everyone. The wings deployed and Sam flew to the 13th floor. He grabbed the shield and threw it at the window. The window shattered and Sam flew inside the room.

Objects in the room were falling and debris was falling from the ceiling. Sam quickly put his shield over his head to protect himself from the debris about to fall on him. The large piece of concrete broke apart when it hit the shield.

Sam put his arm back down and he started to look around. He knew he did not have much time to find Clint because the floor above them starting to collapse down on them. He scanned the room and located Clint.

Sam ran over to his friend. He noticed the dead Taskmaster with the sword sticking through his body. Sam saw Clint and ran over to him and crouched down. Sam put his hand on Clint's dusty and bloody cheek and very lightly slapped him to wake him up.

Clint's eyes very slowly opened. "Sam", Clint said very quietly. Clint was so disorientated that he did not notice he was starting to hear.

Sam smiled. "Hey, buddy. Sleeping on the job?" A faint smile appeared on Clint's face. Clint's eyes started to close again. "Hey, come on. Do not close your eyes." Sam is in no way a medical professional, but he knows from past experiences that Clint may have a severe concussion and many other bad injuries.

Sam wrapped his arm around Clint and helped him stand up. Clint screamed out in a lot of pain. Sam apologized the whole way to the window.

"Ready", Sam asked.

"Hell no", Clint said more alert because of all the pain.

They heard the building start to crack and the floor above them started to fall through the ceiling. They barely dodged the electrical cables that came swinging down.

"Looks like you don't get a choice", Sam said.

Before Clint could reply with something witty, they jumped out the broken window. Clint screamed the whole way to the quinjet, mostly out of pain. Mack helped Sam get Clint inside the quinjet before May closed the ramp.

Yelena got behind Clint and cradled his head on her chest as she sat against the closed ramp. Jemma walked over to him and checked him out since he was more injured than Fury. Sam was crouched down on the opposite side of Jemma.

"May, get us to a hospital now", Sam yelled.

"On it."

"How is he", Yelena asked Jemma.

"Not good. He's suffered multiple external injuries and may have many internal injuries."

Yelena nuzzled her nose against his hair. "Hang on, Clint", she whispered low enough for only Clint to hear.

Clint started to move in Yelena's arms. He bit his lower lip to keep from screaming in pain. Yelena supported him as he sat up the best he could.

"Sir, we have to activate Blackout Protocol", Clint said looking at Fury.

Fury looked at him but did not say anything.

Bobbi leaned over to May. "What's Blackout Protocol?"

"You know that big red button you don't press in movies?" Bobbi nodded. "Well, that's what it is."

"We don't have a choice, Nick", Clint said forcing himself to keep his eyes open.

"He's right", Coulson said.

Fury looked at Coulson. Then he looked at Clint.

"Someone going to tell us what you're talking about", Mack asked.

"It's a bug in the system that will completely erase everything", Fury said.

"Seriously", Daisy asked.

"It's in case something like this happens", Coulson said.

Clint looked at Coulson. "Did Delta Team accomplish their objective?"

"They said they did."

Clint looked at Fury and nodded. Fury sighed as he removed his phone from his pocket. Coulson grabbed out his phone. They simultaneously pressed their thumbs against their phone screens.

 

Five Hours Later...

 

It was 7:15 at night and it was not a good night. Fury and Clint were brought to the hospital and both were checked for their injuries. Clint's injuries, however, were far more severe. Other SHIELD agents injured during the attack were also at hospitals.

Coulson took it upon himself to figure things out while Fury was incapacitated. He was finally getting some answers on the questions they had about the other SHIELD facilities that were destroyed. The others were trying to help him where they could. Yelena and Sam were the only people to stay at the hospital and did not want to be disturbed.

Around 7:30, Clint was sitting on the hospital bed with his legs dangling over the side of the bed. He had his head down and he was staring at his shaking hand. Clint closed his eyes and clenched his fist trying to make the shaking stop.

"Are you okay", a lovely voice asked.

Clint opened his eyes and looked up. He smiled at his wife. "Yeah, I'm fine."

She walked over to him. "You were not being honest with me when I asked before. Are you being honest this time?"

Clint nodded. "I am because there are so many drugs being shot through my body right now."

Yelena laughed. She stepped closer to him and wrapped her arms around his neck. Clint instantly put his hands on her hips. "Why aren't you laying down?"

"Because I can't lay still", he said before leaning his forehead against her own. "I love you so much, Lena."

Yelena smiled. "I love you too, Clint."

Clint leaned his head back to look at Yelena. "How's everyone else?"

"They're fine. They're just concerned about you."

Clint sighed. He turned his head to the television to see the news about the collapsed Triskelion. "I can't believe it's really gone."

Yelena turned her head to also see the news. "Neither can I."

Clint looked back at Yelena. "Who's with Nat?"

Yelena looked at Clint. "I managed to pull Daisy away from Coulson and convinced her to stay with Natalie."

"You had to convince her", Clint asked with a small smile.

Yelena smiled. "Okay, she did not need a reason to be with Natalie."

The couple began laughing.

A knock on the door made them break apart. Yelena did stay next to Clint, though. Coulson walked inside the room with a smile on his face.

"You look like shit", Coulson said.

Clint laughed lightly. He winced when he felt a sting in his body. "Feel like it too."

Coulson was not wrong. Clint had bandages wrapped around a large portion of his chest. He had a bandage around his arm and one around his thigh. Some of his wounds required stitches.

"It's not that I'm not happy to see you, but what do you need, Coulson", Clint asked.

"It's only been five hours since the incident and people are already wanting answers."

"Okay", Yelena said confused.

"Congress wants answers", Clint asked.

"Yes, specifically the Senate Intelligence Committee. They want to know what went wrong. And they want to hear it from you."

"Why Clint", Yelena asked.

"Because I oversaw all operations concerning Blood. I have the answers they need."

"They blame you for what happened and want you to tell them what went wrong."

"When?"

"A few weeks from now. I told them that you were not in the condition to speak to them right now."

Clint nodded. "Thanks, Coulson."

Coulson nodded to them before walking out.

"I have a question for you", Yelena said turning to Clint.

"What?"

"What was Delta Team's job? I saw them carrying a container of explosives and on the quinjet, you asked Coulson if Delta Team accomplished their objective."

"They were ordered to plant explosives all over the bottom three floors of the Triskelion just above the shooting range."

"Aren't those floors where SHIELD kept its old files and artifacts?"

Clint nodded. "That's why I had them blown up. It's a part of Blackout Protocol."

Yelena nodded in understanding. She sat on the hospital bed next to Clint. She grabbed his hand and intertwined their fingers. "Nice work, Hawkeye." She laid her head on his shoulder carefully.

Clint laid his head on hers and smiled.

 

Three Weeks Later...

Clint stood in the Capitol Building just outside the committee room. Sam was standing next to him. They were waiting for the go ahead to enter.

"Are you ready", Sam asked.

"As ready as I'll ever be", Clint said.

Just then, the doors opened. Clint started walking inside. The paparazzi and news reporters were taking photos and asking questions. Clint stood behind the chair at the table. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Sam take a seat next to Rhodey. The two men were the only people he recognized.

"Agent Barton, please raise your right hand", the Senator said. Clint rose his hand. "Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth so help me God?"

"I do", Clint said.

"Agent Clint Barton, please take a seat."

Clint took a seat at the table. His eyes glanced at the microphone before looking at the members of the Senate Intelligence Committee. All of the Senators were staring at him.

"In your own words, describe the events that took place January 27."

Clint began to fidget with the wedding band on his right hand. He started to contemplate the events that brought him here.

"Poseidon's Blood, an organization that I've been hunting for the past 15 years attacked SHIELD with missiles and tactical teams."

The Senators looked at one another when Clint stopped talking. "Is that it", a Senator asked.

"You want me to go into detail? There's not much to say."

"This nation's top intelligence organization was destroyed by another organization that we have never heard of."

"Never heard of? The Senate, Congress, the U.S government was informed on Poseidon's Blood being a threat in 2015. They are not new. It's just that no one heeded my warning. Don't blame me or SHIELD for your inability to pay attention."

The room filled with murmurs and whispers. The Senators were sharing comments. Clint noticed Sam cover his mouth. Rhodey was shaking his head, but he was trying not to laugh.

"Agent Barton, I do not appreciate your comment."

"Well, the truth is hard to hear."

"Okay, then maybe you can tell us something else. Can you explain why SHIELD had secret facilities all over the world that this committee did not know about until January 27?"

Clint cleared his throat. "I think it's because SHIELD leadership did not want you to know. What benefit would it serve for you to know? SHIELD was created to protect this world from threats that it was not ready to know about. That means it has to have secret facilities."

"Agent Barton, I do not think you understand the severity of my question. Many of the facilities struck by those missiles were in or near populated areas. Many casualties were suffered."

"Fatality is an unfortunate part of war."

The Senator chuckled. "Are you calling the problems you've had with Poseidon's Blood war?"

"Yes", Clint said immediately.

"Why is that?"

"Have you ever been in war, Senator?"

"No."

"Well, I have. Innocent people die. Weapons of mass destruction are unleashed. Two sides fight for causes they believe in." Clint looked down for a second. "And sometimes the only way to win is to cut down the opposing side."

The room filled with whispers again. The panel of Senators were also murmuring.

"Are you saying SHIELD lost this "war" because Poseidon's Blood blew up all of its facilities and who knows how many agents?"

"No, that's not what I'm saying. SHIELD barely won the battle three weeks ago. The war, however, is not over."

"How come?"

"Because Poseidon's Blood still has agents in the world. There may even be some in this room. I'll even go as far as to say there may be sleeper agents among this panel. Or in other positions of world leadership."

The room filled with gasps and louder whispers.

"Quiet", the Senator almost yelled. The room became silent. "Agent Barton, can you tell us how the world should expect to feel safe when SHIELD is gone? When the Avengers are gone? And when no nation in the world has the tools necessary to combat Poseidon's Blood?"

Clint clasped his hands together and put them on the table. "Because SHIELD is not gone. Yes, our bases have been destroyed. Yes, our numbers have been diminished. However, they did not cause the amount of damage that they first believed. We have agents all over the world ready to act when given the word."

"Can that still be considered SHIELD?"

"The SSR, SHIELD, the Avengers. The name may change. The mission does not. The protection and security of this world will be our priority." Clint rose from the chair and straightened his suit jacket. "This world has individuals looking out for it." He turned around.

"Agent Barton, this meeting is not over."

"It is for me", Clint said as he walked away from the table.

News reporters were asking him questions as he exited the room. Sam and Rhodey got up and also left the room. They followed him all the way to the bottom of the stairs outside the Capitol Building.

"That went well", Rhodey muttered.

Clint chuckled. "I thought so."

"You lasted longer than Romanov did. That has to count for something", Sam said.

"Yeah, maybe." Clint looked around. "You guys wanna come over to my place for a drink or two?"

"Don't you have everyone over right now", Sam asked.

"Yep. It can fit two more though."

Rhodey laughed. "I can't today. I have other obligations."

"Alright, thanks Rhodey", Clint said as he shook Rhodey's hand.

Rhodey also shook Sam's hand before walking back up the stairs of the Capitol. Sam and Clint started walking to Clint's new SUV. Clint stopped a few feet away when he saw Coulson leaning against his car. Clint handed Sam the keys and walked over to Coulson.

"I didn't know you would be here", Clint said.

"I came to support you."

Clint smiled. "Where is he?"

"Reflecting pool."

Clint started walking in the direction of the pool. "Thanks for the support, Coulson", Clint yelled.

Coulson laughed as he climbed into his car.

Clint crossed the street and walked the long stretch of grass between the Capitol and the Washington Monument. He walked passed the monument and saw Fury standing by the Reflecting pool. Clint stood next to his director.

"Sir", Clint said.

"Barton." Both men were looking out at the pool. They were not looking at each other.

"What's going on?"

"The world used to have SHIELD and the Avengers looking out for them. Now, they have neither."

Clint nodded. "Your point?"

"The world needs protection. You're right, there are still Blood agents out there. We need a team to fix that."

Clint was not even going to question how Fury knows he said that to the Senators. "Alpha through Delta is still available."

"Not that kind of team."

"Then what kind?"

Fury handed Clint a file. "The secret kind."

Clint looked through the file. "A secret team of heroes operating with no oversight or protections."

"That is File 32, or the Secret Avengers as I like to call it. The idea was created in 2015 because the Avengers had become to public. This is what Hill was ordered to protect three weeks ago."

Clint let Fury's words sink in as he read through the file. "And who would lead this team?"

Fury turned to finally face Clint. "I was hoping you."

Clint looked at him. "I'm not a leader."

Fury smirked. "We both know that's not true. You've led the investigation into Blood for 15 years. You also led your own makeshift team at Rockefeller Center. Believe me, you are a leader."

Clint looked down at the file. "Can I have time to think about it?"

Fury nodded.

Clint closed the file. "Thank you, Sir." Clint turned around and started walking back to his SUV.

 

Thirty Minutes Later...

 

Clint and Sam walked into the apartment. They saw everyone was in the living room talking or playing with Natalie. The young girl saw her father and ran over to him and hugged him. Clint lifted her and laughed. Clint put his daughter down and then hugged Yelena.

"You did a great job", Daisy said.

"Yes he did", Sam added as he walked to the kitchen.

Clint chuckled. "I felt proud with what I said."

"Natasha would too", May said.

Everyone laughed.

"How about we do absolutely nothing work related for the next few hours", Hunter said.

"There's a plan", Sam said holding a beer bottle out to Clint.

Clint happily excepted it and walked over to the couch and sat next to Natalie. Everyone else walked into the living room behind him. Yelena sat next to Clint.

The group started to share stories. May's stories were perhaps the most interesting to the group because she never opens up. Mack, Jemma, and Fitz also had fairly interesting stories about working with Coulson.

Yelena looked at Clint and saw he looked distracted. She leaned over to him. "You okay?"

Clint turned his head to face her. He stared at her face before smiling. "I'm fine." He wrapped his arm around her. "I'm just fine."

The group spent the few hours telling stories, talking, and laughing. Natalie enjoyed listening to her parents tell some stories and listen to the stories of the rest her family. At least, she enjoyed the stories she understood.

That night, Clint and Yelena were in their bedroom. Yelena was fast asleep but Clint was still awake. He was reading through the file that Fury had given him. The lamp on the nightstand next to him was the only source of light he needed to read it.

It was not hard for Clint to figure out that this file was very secret. Clint leaned his head against the wall and rubbed his eyes. Clint turned his head to look at Yelena. The blonde woman was sleeping on her side facing him.

Clint smiled. He closed the file and set it on the nightstand. He turned off the light and got more comfortable. Clint wrapped his arms around Yelena and pulled her closer to him. He placed a soft kiss to her forehead before closing his eyes.

 

Two Weeks Later...

 

Clint walked inside the Avengers Compound. It was bustling with life. There were analysts, scientists, techies, and tactical officers walking around. Many of them were former SHIELD agents but now they worked for Clint.

When Clint accepted Fury's offer to be the leader of the Secret Avengers, Fury made the Compound their new headquarters. Everyone who worked at the Compound was also put under the authority of the other members of the Secret Avengers as well.

Clint walked over to the framed photos of Steve, Tony, and Natasha at the entrance. His eyes wandered up to the large 'A' above the photos.

"Sometimes it doesn't feel real", Coulson said walking up to Clint.

"No, it does not." Clint's eyes wandered back down to Natasha's photo.

Coulson looked at Clint and noticed him staring at Natasha. Coulson looked down. "I miss her a lot."

Clint nodded. He turned to face Coulson and cleared his throat. "Are you sure you're okay with me poaching your agent?"

Coulson chuckled. "You poached her long ago. This just officially makes her an Avenger." The two men started walking. "Who else is apart of this team?"

Clint handed Coulson the file he was holding. "Only people I trust."

Coulson opened the file. "Yelena makes sense. Daisy, your second in command. Rhodes, Barnes, and Bishop. Good selection."

"Thanks. Fury said this team has to work in the shadows. These people are good at that."

"Even Bishop?"

Clint was silent for a moment. "I'll teach her."

Coulson laughed. "Have you adjusted to moving your whole life here?"

"For the most part. Yelena and I are too used to it to be effected."

"And Natalie?"

Clint smiled. "She loves New York. She's still adjusting to moving schools, but it helps that she gets to come here a lot."

The two men walked into Clint's new office.

"Are you prepared to lead this new team?"

"I guess I'm still getting used to the idea of it."

"Fury had no one else in mind to lead this team."

"That's hard to believe."

"It's true. I was with him when he created the Secret Initiative. He said he trusts no one else to lead."

"Thanks Coulson."

Clint watched Coulson walk out of the office. Clint walked over to his desk and saw a box on it. He quirked his brow. Clint opened the box and was surprised to see the item inside. He reached in and pulled out the hilt. Clint pressed the button and the blade extended.

"Welcome back", Clint said.

Clint pressed the button again and the blade retracted. He set the hilt down on the desk. Clint walked over to the large window and stared out at the grass and trees. He was mentally preparing to lead his new team of Secret Avengers.

Notes:

I cannot promise anything, but would you all like me to continue the Secret Initiative with a continuation story?

Notes:

Please tell me what you thought!!

Series this work belongs to:

• Part 1 of The Secret Avengers