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Sep 18ᵗʰ, 2015: It has been three years since UN Embassy bombing in Vienna resulting in the deaths of several delegates including then-king of Wakanda T'Chaka; The Sokovia Accords have since been ratified. The Avengers who refuse to sign the Accords have been forced into "retirement" or declared "Persons of Interest" and warrants have been issued for their arrests. And keepign with the Accords, any known super-powered persons exceeding category tl-5 have been re-classified as WMDs and relocated to restricted campus for their protection.
Nick Fury retains control of S.H.I.E.L.D. following his skill handling of the attempted Hydra uprising which was quietly contained within the hangers of the Tiskeleon. Tony Stark continues to fund the Avengers and has relocated them to a renovated Stark facility in upperstate New York, Natasha Romanoff has assumed the mantle of leadership of the current Avengers lineup. Together they have begun begun the work in keeping with the Accords of making the world a safer place for all peoples of Earth as directed by the Accords; The primary duty of the Avengers, now known as the Innitiative, has become handling of WMD resistant to the Accords; The United States has begun discussions of a second, more specific national registration which would require a mandatory genetic screening at age birth and manual complaince with all people who have not so been tested.
However, not everyone has agreement with these proceedings, most noteably Steve Rogers who retiring from the Avengers has since become a very vocal descenter and activist protesting the the Accords. There have been rumors that he leads a team of super-powered "activists" who run interference when possible to prevent families from being split up by the actions of the Accords and the Innitiative. This group has been covertly with an as yet unidentified sympathier within the initiative from various Wakandan Embassies and a network of numerous underground safehouses (provided by an unknown sympathizer to their cause) to identify and find superpowered humans before S.H.I.E.L.D./The WATCH is able to too usher those found into "protective custody".
From the sidelines, various groups and people of possible interest watch with growing interest ranging from academics like Professor Charles Xavier and the reclusive Doctor Henry McCoy to noted researchers like as Moira MacTaggert and Karl Lycos, revered evangelists such as the good Reverend William Stryker, to industrialists like Emma Frost and Boliar Trask and rising political stars such as Donald J. Trump.
Meanwhile, Asgard has relocated to the oceanside village of Tønsberg now renamed "New Asgard" in Norway in homage to their Asgardian heritage. They have begun the great task of building their great former realm now here on Earth, but the work goes slow as they have become distracted at times with their daliences with mortal Terrains.
DATE
Sep 18ᵗʰ, 2015
CLIME
snowy
TEMP
30 °
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AFTERNOON;;
Nestled in the expansive landscape of Upstate New York, the Avengers Compound stood as a testament to modern architecture and technological advancement. Originally a Stark Industries warehouse, Tony Stark transformed it into the New Avengers Facility after the Battle of Sokovia. The main building, characterized by sleek glass facades and minimalist design, housed cutting-edge laboratories, training rooms, and living quarters for the Avengers. Surrounding the central structure were auxiliary buildings, each serving specialized functions, all interconnected by well-maintained pathways and green spaces.
Marvel Cinematic Universe Wiki
RetroZap
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Marvel Database
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Marvel Cinematic Universe Wiki
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Adjacent to the main compound, Section C functioned as a dedicated micro-campus for the Champions' training program. This area comprised three primary structures: the Training Facility, the Educational Center, and the Co-ed Dormitory.
The Training Facility was a state-of-the-art complex equipped with advanced simulation rooms, combat arenas, and fitness centers designed to hone the abilities of young heroes. Its exterior featured reinforced materials, ensuring safety during rigorous training sessions.
Next to it, the Educational Center stood as a hub for academic learning. Classrooms equipped with the latest technology facilitated courses on ethics, law, diplomacy, and sciences, emphasizing the importance of knowledge alongside physical prowess. Lecture halls and study lounges provided spaces for collaborative learning and individual study.
The Co-ed Dormitory offered comfortable living spaces for trainees. While the building accommodated all genders, individual rooms were assigned based on gender to ensure privacy. Common areas, including lounges and kitchens, fostered a sense of community among the residents.
The entire Section C campus was meticulously planned, with landscaped gardens, walking paths, and recreational areas, promoting both physical and mental well-being. Its proximity to the serene waters of the Hudson River provided a picturesque backdrop, allowing trainees moments of reflection amid their demanding schedules.
DETAILS
ic
MILIEU
TEMP: 72° partly-cloudy
LOCALE:
- North Bay, NY - Champions Training Facilities - The Initiative Compound - Section C - NY State
Chant:: Billy Kaplan walked alongside Carl, his cape fluttering lightly in the breeze as they strolled down one of the paved walkways that twisted through the Champions’ Training Facility. His uniforms a mix of muted greys, red scarlet pipping, panels of what seemed to be evershifting galaxy scapes and his red clock — all of it trimmed in sleek magical runes embroidered at the edges. It felt good, grounding. Familiar. Like putting on courage.
Behind them, Section C’s buildings stood clean and modern — the classroom facility with its glass atrium, the training dome with its reinforced alloy walls, and the dormitory complex that felt a bit too much like summer camp but with better tech. Out here, though, the path opened up toward the treeline, and through the gaps, Billy caught glimpses of North Bay — a sparkling expanse of water large enough it almost felt like an inland sea. (Note to self: Still not sure if it’s technically a lake. Google it later.)
“I think there’s a coffee shop-slash-general store-slash-chill zone just up ahead,” Billy said, squinting at the app on his phone. “At least that’s what the map says — assuming I’m holding this thing the right way.”
He held it out for Carl to see, then tilted his head. “Did you download the app yet? It’s a little glitchy, but it’s got all the basics. Campus map, class schedules, squad details... and hero profiles. Not that I’ve been reading through everyone’s. I totally haven’t memorized your power listing or anything.”
He laughed quickly, flushing a little, then pushed forward before the awkwardness could catch up with him.
“Also, apparently everyone’s getting upgraded to the new Stark SmartFones this week. They look so good — like sleek, holographic interfaces, miniaturized arc tech processors, built-in voice AI. Super sexy in a techno-sorcery kind of way, you know?”
He glanced over at Carl — and honestly, it was hard not to.
Carl looked good in his costume. Like, really good. Broad shoulders, those strong, sculpted arms filling out the sleeves, and that quiet storm kind of energy that made Billy’s brain melt a little. He didn’t want to be weird about it, but… come on. The blond was tall, dreamy, and looked like he could punch through a tank without breaking a sweat. He probably had a tragic backstory. Why was that always hot?
“I like your costume, by the way,” Billy added, trying to sound casual but not too casual. “It, um—really suits you. Shows you off in a good light. Not just the colors, but… you know, the general superhero silhouette. Big arms, broad chest. You’re kind of built like the cover of a graphic novel.”
He gave a half-laugh, brushing hair out of his eyes. “Anyway, I was thinking maybe we could work out together sometime? I could definitely use some pointers, and you look like you know what you're doing. Plus, I wouldn't mind watching—learning, I mean. From you. Workout-wise.”
Billy mentally groaned at himself but kept smiling. Mostly.
It was kind of amazing, though — all the young heroes they’d seen earlier in the auditorium. Billy had no idea there were so many powered teens out there, all brave enough to stand in a room and be counted.
“It’s inspiring, isn’t it?” he said, his tone softening. “I mean… seeing how many of us there are. Different powers, different backgrounds. Makes you feel like maybe we’re not so alone. Like we could really change things.”
He hesitated for a beat, glancing over at Carl again.
“Also… Director Fury totally said dating was allowed. Not that I’m assuming anything! Just… you know. In case you were wondering. For science.”
He gave a hopeful smile as they rounded a corner and spotted the cozy shape of the coffee shop in the distance — all wood and glass and low warm lighting. A peaceful little oasis for caffeine-fueled bonding.
“Anyway. Hot chocolate? Maybe a scone? I feel like I’m definitely a scone person. I don’t know what that says about me, but I’m choosing to believe it’s charming.”
Maelstrom:: Carl still couldn’t believe he was at some Avengers compound. It didn’t feel real. He wore his casual white t-shirt and blue jeans. He wasn’t going to be on the latest trends magazine with his fashion style. He pulled out his phone from the pocket of his leather jacket. It was clearly a few generations behind. An old-fashioned flip phone with buttons to press for the numbers. It withstood his strength more easily and didn’t bust when getting thrown around by the latest villain.
“No I don’t know how to download the,” Carl paused thinking of the correct term, “the app?” He hands the phone to Billy, “Maybe you can put your number in there.” Carl's heartbeat a little quicker in his chest, asking for Billy’s number. “So did that app tell us our roommates yet or what? I haven’t made it to the dorms yet.” He was too busy exploring the compound without the digital map. They had to have a swimming pool here somewhere.
Superhero Silohuette? Is that how people were viewing him? Some kind of hero. His costume had shown up on his doorstep shortly after Niel died. Like he knew Carl would be standing here one day. Surely he had done the actions of a hero, but the word still wasn’t the most comforting word. “I’m not a hero, just a guy trying to do the right thing.” Carl put his arm on Billy’s shoulder, just briefly before his hand retreated. Besides, he didn’t want his hands, which were starting to sweat, to be noticeable.
He wasn’t sure his contact was welcome. Nor was he going to comment on the fact that Nick Fury said dating was on the table. “Yes, I can help you work out. I do some lifting and stretching for my taekwondo, but swimming is my favorite form of exercise. Though you do, like magic or something, right? Do you need to be super buff?”
The shop Billy mentioned was coming into view. The decisions of what to grab are approaching rapidly. He hadn’t tried a scone and wasn’t particularly fond of hot chocolate. So he planned to do what he usually did when eating out with friends. Just order the exact same thing. No need to make decisions.
Chant:: Billy blinked at the photo on his phone and grinned. “Blink? Nope—you look pretty hot, actually. Want me to forward it to you?” He glanced at Carl’s flip phone and chuckled. “Though I’m not sure your antique can handle it.”
At Carl’s comment about breaking bones, Billy’s eyes widened in awe. “You can break bones with a handshake? That’s… wow. That’s serious strength. And serious control. That’s impressive, Carl.”
When Carl offered to show him some moves, Billy lit up. “That’d be amazing! I actually like the idea of kicks over punches—gotta protect these.” He flexed his fingers playfully. “If I can’t stretch them out, no spells. No puffs. No smoke. Total fail.”
As they sat, Billy gave a soft smile. “Thanks for lunch, by the way. That was sweet.” He unwrapped his sandwich, then added, “And nah, magic’s not about being super smart. It’s about the three Cs: control, creativity, and concentration. I’m definitely not in the league of Chimaera, Iron Lad, or Viv Vision. I read stuff, but like, just news blogs and fandom boards. People think I’m smart… but I think that’s just ‘cause I talk a lot.”
Hearing about Carl’s ability to handle deep water had Billy’s eyes lighting up again. “That sounds incredible. Maybe we should go swimming sometime? I heard one of the pools has structures way down at the bottom. I wouldn’t wanna go alone, but with you?” His smile turned a little more mischievous. “I bet you look really hot in swim trunks.”
Carl’s casual line about dating both genders made Billy’s breath catch slightly—then smile, shy but happy. “That’s cool. Really cool, actually.” He hesitated, then looked at Carl more openly. “Would you ever like… date someone? Or is it always casual? I mean… if we went out, I couldn’t be with someone else. That’s just not me.” He laughed lightly, but his eyes stayed on Carl’s face—hopeful, curious, admiring. “You’re kind of my type, you know? Strong, grounded, heroic, all broad-shouldered and mysterious. It’s... You... You're like really hot. But, I imagine you know that though. You probably get hit on a lot I imagine.”
Maelstrom:: Carl was a little dazed at the flash of the camera. It was a little unexpected and left him seeing dots in front of his eyes. “Hope I didn’t blink,” his voice had an undertone of jovial amusement. “Well,l being strong does have its perks,” Carl admitted to Billy. “However, it also has its downsides. Before my power manifested, I was still strong, but I didn’t have to pay attention to how I grabbed things. Now, if I’m not careful,l it is a lot easier to break doorknobs or bones during a handshake.”
With a nod to the server, he pulled out his wallet to pay for both his and Billy’s order. “I’ll take the same thing as him, make it easier.” With little effort, he transported his order to the nearest seat. Having followed behind Billy. “The magic thing, that requires like a lot of smarts, right? Reading books and practicing? I don’t know if I could sit still that long. I focus better through physical activity. I’d love to show you a couple of moves sometime. Taekwondo in particular lines up with my power set.” Using strategic blasts during a spin kick was a great way to multiply is already significant amount of force.
“Oh, being deep underwater is fun. The further you go down, the stronger the pressure. My body is built for going deep. In fact, I never really tested how deep I can go. I feel a buildup of pressure, like a strong hug, and then it suddenly releases, and it starts building up again. Like when you are running, and then you hit a wall until your body switches over from using up its sugar reserves and then starts using fat reserves.” It was hard to explain. With normal people, he was sure it never released pressure; it was a unique adaptability of his physiology.
Carl took a bite of his sandwich and was talking with his mouth slightly full, “No, I don’t have a problem with you being gay. I date both genders. Guess, much like meals, I don’t have to make a decision. Just take what I enjoy as it comes.” He winked at Billy. “Not sure I’d have the discipline to not spam magic to make my life easier if I had your abilities.”
Maelstrom:: “I bet you want me to go swimming just to see me with my shirt off.” Carl winked. The smile that reached his eyes receded into one more subtle and lingering. He shifted to being called heroic. It was still a word he was getting used to being used to describe him. “I date people I find special,” he replied, “granted, it has been some time since I dated anyone. I might be out of practice.
It was hard for Carl to open up to let Billy know he was special, “I am not the type to explore options once I have committed, either. No reason to cheat, if you want someone else to grow a pair and break off your current relationship first.”
Carl closed his eyes as he took a bite of his food. Trying to hide the light moan of an enjoyable experience. Part of that was to ignore the flush that threatened to color his face at being complimented. “I don’t get hit on as often as you would think. When I’m heroing, I don’t stick around. When I’m not heroing, I am often in solitude. Meditating at the bottom of a pool feels good. I guess there are benefits to dating a cute hero such as yourself. I can't wait to get those phones you say Stark was handing us. Then I can actually store pictures of you on it.”
Flirting wasn’t his strong suit. It was a subtlety he wasn’t used to. No bluntness and honesty were his style. Which, in his experience, doesn’t create the enjoyable tension in a relationship that most seem to desire. “SO, how did you find a place that actually does real magic. I imagine you don’t just stumble on an ancient magic training society.”
"Well... I mean, I am gay, so uh—yes please? Like, no offense or anything, but your shoulders are—wow—and your eyes? Honestly, they’re like… twin pools of water reflecting the morning sun or something. That sounds super cheesy, sorry—but they are amazing. You're amazing. Kind of unfair, honestly."
He lets out a breath and gives a lopsided grin.
"I don’t have any game. Like, zero. None. I got hit on earlier and it was nice, but... then Brawn showed up and showed interest in him too, and I figured—y'know—big green goes with big green, right? Hard to compete with muscles and confidence in stereo. But everyone here’s incredible. Like, Avengers-level impressive. You're... impressive too. Actually, you could totally have your own calendar. Do you? Is it on Etsy? Amazon? I’m asking for a friend. Who is also me."
Meanwhile, in Billy’s dorm, a poster materializes on the wall—a shirtless Carl posed dramatically underwater, mid-swim, silver light dappling over him. Neither of them knows this is happening. It’s just Billy’s subconscious wishcraft doing its weird thing again.
Billy tries to regain focus, his smile faltering slightly in thought.
"I was thinking about something you said. About commitment? That once you make a choice, you should be honest. I agree. You owe it to the other person. And… oh shoot—did you say that? Or did I just pick up on it? I do that sometimes—sorry. Like… vibes. I pick up on people, and I should really keep that to myself, I know. But… I think you’re special. Just FYI. Being honest."
He gives a playful wink, then laughs softly, embarrassed but not sorry.
"And yes, still very open to seeing you shirtless. For, uh, observational purposes. Like… tactical awareness. Or... aesthetics."
He smiles again, softer this time, like the thought of Carl makes him feel safe.
"Also, this might sound ridiculous, but I found this ‘Magic for Dummies’ book? I mean, they make those books for everything, right? But it actually helped. A lot more real than you'd think. And right after that, S.H.I.E.L.D. picked me up. Midway through trying to win tickets to a Harry Styles concert, of all things. That’s kind of my life, honestly. Weird. And getting weirder."
Maelstrom:: "I'm sure some uber fan has probably made a calendar of me," Carl leaned back in his chair. "I didn't sign away any official merch, though." He barely wanted the accolades of being called a hero. Getting paid to do the job by selling merch made him feel even worse about the idea. "Though if you want one, then I'd recommend you get a camera. Maybe I can pose for you each month and you would have a camera for next year." It was partially a joke offer. However, Carl would not be opposed if Billy had taken him up on it.
"You get vibes often?" Carl was almost finished with his treat. "Does magic come with like visions or something? I am not sure about all that nuance. I am more like a single-use tool. Select for a specific situation, I work well, though magic seems like a Swiss Army knife of talent." Carl barely covered his mouth, spitting out a milkshake, when Billy mentioned the dummy's book. "You can't be serious. If that was the case, every Harry Potter cosplayer could be wielding magic." He looked deep into Billy's eyes, not able to tear the smile off his face and go back to his more stoic neutral expression.
Carl tried not to think of his contact with the shield. It wasn't worth thinking about, "So Harry Styles, that is that One Direction guy, right? I think a girl dragged me to some documentary about them sometime. Best theater nap I had."
Chant:: Billy (grinning, flustered, and totally trying to play it cool but failing adorably):
"Okay, wow—did you just offer to pose for me? Like, casually? Like that’s a normal sentence people say out loud in the world? Because I’m trying really hard to be cool right now, and my brain just went full static. Like, actual white noise. Bzzzzzt."
He mimes his brain short-circuiting with a tiny explosion motion near his temple and laughs softly.
"I don’t even own a good camera. I have a phone, and one of those weird clip-on lens things that’s supposed to make it artsy? But I feel like if I pointed it at you, it’d just catch fire or explode or something. Too much raw hotness for the sensor. I could draw you, though? But full warning, I’m not great. You’d probably end up looking like a sexy potato."
His smile is crooked but genuine, warm with affection and amusement. Then he nods at Carl’s question about vibes, more serious for a moment.
"Yeah… I mean, sometimes. It’s not like full-on visions or glowing eyes or anything—no ravens screaming prophecies or ancient runes hovering midair. Not yet, anyway. It’s more like… knowing stuff I probably shouldn’t? Little emotional threads I can tug on. People’s energy. It’s like… magic tuning forks. Kinda."
He rubs the back of his neck, bashful now.
"It makes me weird at parties. Or, well, it would, if I went to parties. Which I don't. So. Bonus, I guess."
He pauses as Carl chuckles at the book, and his eyes sparkle with joy.
"I am serious about ‘Magic for Dummies!’ I know it sounds ridiculous, but it had actual, like, structure to it? Symbols, intent, focus—it helped me stop blowing up light bulbs when I got anxious, so… small victories, right? And hey—Harry Potter wishes he could tap into chaos magic."
Billy straightens slightly in mock pride, then laughs at himself, fiddling with his straw before shooting Carl a look, teasing.
"And wow, rude? Harry Styles is a literal angel on earth with a voice like melted caramel and a wardrobe from heaven. You slept through his documentary?? I might have to revoke your taste card, sir."
Billy sucks his lips into his mouth as he looks at Carl in a way that says he could have anything.
"But i won't revoke it cause you're too damn hot and there is probably some kind of law against revoking hot peoples taste cards."
He nudges Carl lightly with his elbow, playful but careful not to push too hard.
"But… thank you. For talking to me like I’m just—me. I know I can be kind of a lot sometimes. You make me feel like that’s okay. Like I’m okay."
There’s a pause, his voice softening.
"You’re like this… still lake. Deep. Quiet. But full of gravity. Being around you makes all my noise settle."
And then, to break the tension because he can’t handle sincerity for too long, Billy blurts out:
"So anyway, I’ll be expecting my January pose to be, like, tastefully shirtless with snowflakes. For the calendar. Obviously."
He grins brightly, eyes crinkling, but the affection in them is unmistakable.
Maelstrom:: “I promise I have yet to set cameras on fire. I have accidentally crushed some though.” He brought his fingers up for air quotes on accident. “I am not too keen on reporters filming me too much.” Carl wasn’t used to being complimented so much. So he let Billy ramble on, while he tried to not blush. Instead of keeping his cool. “Ya, I am not the partying type myself. I seem to attract too much attention.” Before his powers, it was easier to blend in. He wasn’t part of the popular crowd. However, after his abilities manifested, people seemed to take more notice of him. “I am not the type of guy that likes too much unearned attention,” he paused, “though I don’t mind attention from you.”
Glad that Billy changed the subject to ease the tension, Carl took his cue. “Ok, in addition to the sleeping aid that is One Direction Documentaries, what other kind of movies do you like watching? I prefer action comedies myself.” Carl is teasingly doubling down on his Harry Styles disdain. It wasn’t the most subtle way of fishing for information for their future hangouts. “I used to like superhero action movies with Niel, until I got my abilities, of course.”
After manifesting and joining the cause, it felt too real to get lost in them. “I am sure you probably don’t watch a lot of magic-based movies with hokey wizards, now that you are one.” Carl could be wrong. He didn’t know Billy that well yet. He waved over the server for another milkshake, having emptied his a minute ago. Maybe it was nerves, but he was drinking faster than normal. Maybe he was trying to keep his mouth busy to distract himself. “Where is it you like to spend most of your time? You already know I prefer the pool.”
Chant:: Billy’s grin widened as Carl admitted to not minding his attention. "Wow you're strong", Billy stated, his eyes wide with amazement, obviously impressed. “Well then,” he said, his voice lilting with playful pride, “I feel like I just unlocked a secret level or something.” He bumped his knee lightly against Carl’s under the table, not enough to be obnoxious—just enough to say I like you too.
At the mention of crushed cameras, he gasped dramatically. “Remind me to never hand you my phone. It’s practically held together with glitter and a prayer.”
Then Carl asked about movies, and Billy lit up like he’d just been asked to explain the Monsterverse, aka the Godzilla Cinematic Universe in order of personal preference. “Okay first of all, how dare you slander Harry Styles. The cheek. The fashion. The vocals. The hair. The kisses.” He put a hand to his heart like he was personally wounded. “But I guess I’ll forgive you, because you’re distractingly good-looking and have an adorable milkshake addiction.”
He nudged Carl again and added, more thoughtfully, “I actually do watch magic movies—like the cheesier the better. I learned half my early spells from Magic for Dummies and weird esoteric YouTube rabbit holes. You never know what clicks. Even the hokey stuff can surprise you.” He sipped his water and shrugged. “Also… I dunno, it feels kind of nice to watch something where the biggest stakes are, like, a cursed love potion or enchanted prom dress... And often you have kitties and I love cats.”
When Carl asked where he spent most of his time, Billy tried not to blush. “Lately? I guess… around the pool,” he said, casual but not entirely casual. “It’s peaceful. Calms the static in my head. Plus, let’s be honest—great views.”
He gave Carl a once-over, very obviously meaning you, then laughed into his sandwich.
“I think you’ve ruined me, honestly. I used to spend my downtime with a blanket, a crystal, and existential dread. Now I’m gonna be googling how to flirt in swimwear and casually debating whether I should get waterproof eyeliner. I should probably google how to get an A-Game too cause you got game. You're like so quiet confident - its very hot I think.”
Then, quieter, more sincere: “I really like being around you. I feel… like less of a mess.”
And just like that, unable to leave it too serious, Billy leaned in and whispered with mock gravity, “So what’s your July calendar theme? Because I’m picturing stars-and-stripes board shorts, sparklers, and a very heroic flex.”
Maelstrom:: "I got game?" Carl started sucking on the straw. A desperate attempt to keep his face from cracking a smile. Prefering to keep a more stoic expression, "I've never been told that before." His eyes widened as he was told how Billy used to spend his time. "Wait, wizards actually use one of those hokey crystal balls." Of course, he bought those cheap things at weird shops before. Always made a good paper weight. Rarely did he believe in magic crystals before he entered the hero gig. "Urgh hero gig," he thought. Still getting used to the idea. Not really sure he would ever be comfortable with the title.
Carl imagined himself on the calendar page as described. Not an image he enjoyed. Part of him would rather be naked than captured as patriotic. "I'm not Captain America. I wouldn't be caught dead in stars and stripes. If I'm going to help out, it won't be exactly under the thumb of one country. So I wouldn't want to promote myself that way." It was hard to tell him that he would go against the heroes that Billy admired if it meant doing what he thought was right. "Maybe we can go swimming and we can get one with me underwater. I can hold together an air bubble for you. Take you...deep."
The last word felt cheesy and was a bit unlike him. However, the atmosphere had lowered his guard more than usual. "Trust me if you love water above the surface, below is better. In the pools, you get used to the chlorine burning the eyes, but under natural bodies of water, it is pretty beautiful. Though you would have to trust me, since I'd be responsible for you breathing."
Chant:: Billy practically lit up like a sparkler at the word “deep.” His eyebrows shot up, and his grin turned positively wicked.
“Oh. Oh.” He leaned in just a little, just enough to make it dangerous, voice dipping with playful menace. “Was that a line, Carl? Because if it was, ten out of ten, no notes. Do not be surprised if I start planning my underwater calendar debut immediately. I already see the tagline—‘July: Make a Splash.’ I’ll bring glittery goggles and everything. You bring the air.”
He laughed, but the sound softened as he watched Carl sip his milkshake, trying so hard to stay composed. The corners of Billy’s mouth curved, affectionate and amused. “And yes, wizards use crystal balls, thank you very much. We also use chalk, herbs, Latin, pop music, bad ideas, and occasionally Pinterest. Magic is improvisational. Half the time it’s vibes and spite.”
Then, a little quieter, a little more real: “I like that you wouldn’t want to be anyone’s flag. That you care that much. It’s… grounding. And honestly? I’d rather be under the ocean with someone who’s real about the world than above it with a hundred fake heroes posing for parades.”
He bumped Carl’s knee again—gentler this time. “And yeah. I trust you.” A beat. “You haven’t dropped me yet.”
Then, smirking again: “But fair warning—if you take me somewhere magical underwater and I don’t get a Disney princess moment with fish swirls and mood lighting? I will file an official complaint. Probably in glitter ink. Possibly in song.”
Maelstrom:: "Oh, me delivering a line?" I paused, "Never. I don't have that much charisma." Carl adjusted the collar of his shirt. This was still new territory for him. "Of course, there are a few places I consider magical. Maybe can get you that Disney princess moment. However, I can't exactly speak to fish or know the location of Atlantis. So do keep your expectations tempered."
He mirrored Billy by leaning in closer. The distance between them across the table was growing smaller. "How long have you been doing the whole hero thing? What got you into it?" In Carl's case, he was reluctant and seemingly dragged kicking and screaming into the biz. Carl quirked an eyebrow. "Are you the type to enlist as duty? Want the fame and fortune angle?" Despite asking the question, he didn't see Billy as the attention-seeking type.
"Any magical places you know of? Like the Taj Mahal of mages, or is it all giant libraries and dusty tomes?" An image conjured in his mind of Billy hunched over a desk reading his dummy's book by candlelight in an old, dank castle. The kind that is damp without a fire stoked, emanating warmth for the students. "Given you do the whole magic thing, I assume you are somewhat close to Dr. Strange? If not, have you had him mentor you?" Part of the reason Carl was wondering was that he didn't have many connections with other heroes. Part of that was self-imposed, given his views. Though now working as a team, he would have to adapt. Maybe taking the lead from Billy, if he had experience in that area.
Chant:: Billy’s eyes sparkled, an he gave Carl a look that could only be described as fond exasperation. " '-“No charisma', he says—as Carl leans in all tall and smoldery like a romance cover model who just discovered feelings.” He laughed softly, nudging Carl’s foot under the table. “Please. Your jawline alone has more stage presence than half the team.”
At the mention of magical places, Billy leaned back a little, chewing thoughtfully on his lower lip. “I might know where Atlantis is. I mean, one of my weirder books says it’s extinct in the public record, which sounds like the kind of trick ancient magic societies would pull. I mean—people still say magic doesn’t exist. Vampires, werewolves, witches… but like, I exist, so the ‘no magic’ thing is clearly busted. So why not Atlantis?”
He laughed, but there was a flicker of genuine belief in his expression.
When Carl asked about the hero thing, Billy took a long sip from his water bottle before answering. “Honestly? I’ve barely done anything heroic. Rescued a couple cats, helped a lost kid at the mall, volunteered for some firehouse cleanup while magically disguised as someone way burlier than me. Saw a supervillain once. By the time I changed into my costume, Spider-Man had already taken him down.”
A beat.
" I got Spider-Man's autograph though. I had him make out to me telling him it was for a friend."
a beat.
"I think he knew it was for me though... he's Spider-Man after all."
He shrugged, sheepish. “I didn’t even know about the Champions Initiative when I got flagged. I figured if I didn’t qualify for a Mystic League or a Hogwarts scholarship, I’d just keep casting quietly and… I dunno, keep being the weird gay kid with spooky fingers and decent attendance.”
“But when they said they’d help me stabilize my powers? I couldn’t say no.” He grew serious for a moment, eyes steady. “I want to do good. Help people. Not just in small ways, but really be the kind of person who lifts people up. The world has enough people tearing it down. Less Trumps. More Spider-Mans I say.”
His gaze flicked to Carl’s, open and sincere. “I wish Spidey hadn’t left. But maybe we can help fill that space.”
At Carl’s last question, Billy’s eyes went big with excitement. “Oh my god, I wish I’d met Doctor Strange. Are you kidding? That’d be so epic. But no—I haven’t. I think I’m, like, barely even a blip on his mystic radar. Honestly, I'm probably just a blip on anyone's radar. But I would love a mentor. Or even just someone who can explain why my spells sometimes make the toaster float when I’m just trying to heat up a bagel.”
He smiled, then added with a mock whisper, “The English tutors here have been the real MVPs though—especially when my Dummies book tries to teach me Latin conjugation through interpretive poetry. My pronunciation isn't very good.”
Maelstrom:: Carl tries to hide the glow in his face from the compliment. “Well, you aren’t too bad yourself. Got that cute plucky sidekick type vibe as well.” He didn’t move his foot from the kick. The time spent in this diner with Billy was quickly ranking in his head as one of his new favorite spots. “Really?” Carl leaned in, interested. “You think Atlantis could actually exist?” Part of his mind was imagining them as half-fish people. What would a full Atlantean look like, he thought. “Hold up!” Carl quirked an eyebrow, “Vampires and werewolves, too? You have to be making some of that up."
He was starting to feel out of the loop. So far, most of his hero work had been somewhat mundane. If you count low-level powered individuals and regular crooks as mundane. Definitely wasn’t near what most Avengers deal with, in his opinion. “Hey, cats need rescuing too.” Carl joked. “So you haven't stumbled into anything big that you had to just deal with?” He fell silent a bit at getting Spider-Man’s autograph. He had to remember that not everyone had a small disdain for hero worship. Especially Spiderman, if half the bad press was correct. It would be something Carl would have to get over, since he doubted he could just rush off after a save now.
“What do you mean, help you stabilize your powers? You don’t have control?” Carl was serious now. They were about to be on a team. If his powers were erratic, that seemed like something everyone on the team should have known. Not that their team's meet-up had a lot of information sharing going on regarding everyone’s abilities and experience levels.
Billy Kaplan (Chant) walks alongside Carl (Maelstrom) through the Champions’ Training Facility on the Avengers’ Upper NY State campus. Billy, in his hero costume, points out a nearby coffee shop and asks if Carl has downloaded the campus app. He excitedly mentions everyone is getting new Stark SmartFones and how sleek they look.
Internally, Billy reflects on how attractive Carl is — tall, blond, broad-shouldered — and compliments his costume for showing off his build. He suggests they work out together sometime, hoping to get training tips (and maybe admire him more). Billy also finds the number of young heroes inspiring and casually drops that Fury said dating is allowed. As they approach the shop, he offers hot chocolate and a scone, hoping to spend more time together.
Billy compliments Carl, flirts more openly, and thanks him for lunch. He’s impressed by Carl’s strength and wants to learn taekwondo, noting his own powers need finger movement to work. They talk magic, dating, and swimming. Billy’s excited Carl is bi, asks if he’d ever date someone seriously, and admits Carl is his type—strong, grounded, heroic. Billy hopes they can swim together and maybe be more than friends.
Billy shyly admits he’d love to see Carl shirtless, compliments his eyes, and rambles about having no game and being outclassed by Brawn. He jokes Carl should have a calendar—unaware his magic causes one to appear back in his dorm. He agrees with Carl about honesty in relationships, realizes he may have picked up Carl’s feelings, apologizes, and tells him he’s special. Billy ends by saying he learned magic from a “Dummies” book before S.H.I.E.L.D. recruited him—while trying to win Harry Styles tickets.
Billy responds with his usual mix of flustered charm and heartfelt honesty. He’s thrilled (and overwhelmed) by Carl’s joking offer to pose for a calendar, teasing about cameras exploding from Carl’s hotness. He opens up about his intuitive magical “vibes,” his fondness for a Magic for Dummies book that actually helped him, and his deep admiration for Harry Styles—playfully scolding Carl for sleeping through his documentary. Beneath the jokes, Billy expresses genuine gratitude, telling Carl he feels safe and seen around him. He ends with a wink and a joke about the first shirtless calendar pose, hiding sincerity behind humor as always.
Billy responds with his usual mix of flustered charm and heartfelt honesty. He’s thrilled (and overwhelmed) by Carl’s joking offer to pose for a calendar, teasing about cameras exploding from Carl’s hotness. He opens up about his intuitive magical “vibes,” his fondness for a Magic for Dummies book that actually helped him, and his deep admiration for Harry Styles—playfully scolding Carl for sleeping through his documentary. Beneath the jokes, Billy expresses genuine gratitude, telling Carl he feels safe and seen around him. He ends with a wink and a joke about the first shirtless calendar pose, hiding sincerity behind humor as always.
Billy flirts playfully with Carl after his "deep" comment, teasing about doing an underwater calendar shoot and loving Carl’s quiet confidence. He jokes about wizard tools and magic being fueled by vibes and spite, then turns sincere—saying he admires Carl’s refusal to be anyone’s symbol and that he trusts him. Billy adds warmth and humor by warning that if Carl takes him underwater without delivering a Disney-level magical moment, he’ll “file a complaint” in glitter and song.
Billy teases Carl for claiming he lacks charisma and insists his jawline could headline a movie. He speculates Atlantis might exist, since magic does, and shares that his hero experience is mostly minor rescues and cleanups. He joined the Champions Initiative hoping to stabilize his powers and do real good in the world. Billy wishes he could meet Doctor Strange and dreams of having a real magical mentor someday. He finds Carl grounding, inspiring, and very handsome—and thinks maybe, together, they can help fill the heroic gaps left behind.
Flirt with Billy and intrigued by the idea of finding Atlantis. Though concerned about Billy telling him about his powers not being stable.
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Chant r 3 | 3 | 3 The Next Fanboi-Sorcerer Supreme
r4 / m0003a05-t07
The possible son of the Scarlet Witch, Wiccan is mutant of exceptional power whose abilities allow him to literally alter reality through the sheer force of his personal belief. He must speak his desires out loud to actually alter reality.
3 | 3 | 3; I put child abuse as a trigger because I wouldn't want to roleplay active sexual abuse to a minor. Though given it is called a trigger I feel like I should say that I wasn't a victim of it. I don't want to overshadow actual victims. Outside that I am usually anything goes. Of course, if it is a permanent damage or change to my character I wouldn't want it to just happen without some conversation. For example, cutting my arm off where it can't be repaired or replaced ever.
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