Video;

[subject223]

[ The video turns on to a view of a man’s face, and those observant enough to notice nitpicky details might realize that this is a man who’s familiar with and comfortable using strange bits of technology. There’s no fear in his eyes, no outward confusion or panic. He looks calm and in control, and when he speaks, he sounds like it, too. ]

Hello. My name’s Steve Rogers and I just recently arrived from a city called New York. I was debriefed about the situation and I wanted to offer my help to anyone who needs it.

[ He pauses for a moment as he collects his thoughts. These days, it’s not often that he goes somewhere that people aren’t at least slightly familiar with who he is. Providing a brief resume is a somewhat novel experience. ]

I’ve been a soldier for a long time, but I’m also good with my hands. Construction, farming, hunting, good old-fashioned heavy lifting, I can help with that. I can speak a number of languages, too, if anyone needs translations done. I know I’m new, but I want to pull my weight. So if you know anyone who might need a hand with something, let me know.

[ Offering a faint smile, he gives the camera a short nod. ]

Thanks for your time.

Comments

[video | 100% Avengers encryption]

[tendnottoweep]

I'm beginning to wonder if I should worry my team's being replaced. [ She doesn't sound especially worried, though. A little wary, but not much more than that. ]

[subject223]

Natasha.

[ Except she mentioned her team, which means she's from another world. ]

No one can replace any of the Avengers. No matter who's on the team or which one it is.

[tendnottoweep]

At the moment, there's only two of us agreeing there actually is a team. From everything I've heard, yours has been around for quite a while longer than ours. [ At least Natasha doesn't seem insecure about it. She's unsure about the boys.

She pauses thoughtfully, lips pressed together, before going on. ]

Is there anything you want to know you haven't been filled in on? [ How much she'll actually say is questionable. She's keeping the information about the lab and Clint to her own team for now. But a Cap is a Cap, so she's willing to offer a little. ]

[subject223]

I think there's a lot I haven't been filled in on.

[ But as to what that entails, he's not sure and doesn't feel that he has enough information yet to ask. Instead, he thinks maybe there's something more useful he can do.

Like offer unsolicited advice. ]

But if you don't mind my saying so, it gets better. The team comes around. First time mine got together, it was pretty hairy. Still is some days. But we're a family. We're there when we need each other. You will be too. Just give them time.

[tendnottoweep]

[ She smirks slightly at his answer - it's a good one. She's not going to repeat the offer, but if he's anything like the Steve Rogers she knows, he'll find her when he's ready. ]

You seem very certain of that. Every version of us in every universe somehow works together, regardless of timeline or circumstance? [ A tiny smile. ] I doubt it. But thank you for your confidence.

A lot of people here seem to have a great deal of faith in you.

[subject223]

This isn't the first time I've met people from other universes. Maybe there are a few who don't get along as well as they might in others, but for the most part, I think they do all right.

[ Regardless of timeline, regardless of the experiences, he believes that they're still intrinsically the same people. Even if the actions of one of his counterparts is baffling to him. ]

I've worked with a lot of good people over the years. That faith is a two-way street, I couldn't have earned it without them.

[tendnottoweep]

I guess we'll see. [ Whether she means the team or Steve is up for debate. Maybe both. Probably, Natasha being who she is. ]

I look forward to working with you too, Captain.

[subject223]

I do too. Back home, Black Widow is one of my most trusted teammates. I've no doubt you will be too. For your own Steve Rogers at the very least.