Chapter 4: The Strategic Session
As Ethan and Steve huddled together, Ethan couldn't help but feel a surge of adrenaline mixed with a healthy dose of nerves. "Alright, Steve, let's concoct a plan," he said, trying to sound confident despite the pounding of his heart. "But first, we need a strategy."
Steve raised an eyebrow, a ghost of a smile playing at the corners of his lips. "A strategy, huh? You sure you're up for that?"
Ethan shot Steve a playful glare. "Hey, I may not have firm determination like you, but I've got brains to spare," he quipped, attempting to lighten the mood.
Together, they leaned in closer, heads almost touching as they whispered conspiratorially. It felt like a scene from a buddy comedy, with Ethan cast as the witty sidekick to Steve's earnest hero.
"Alright, here's the plan," Ethan began, his voice barely above a whisper as he outlined their scheme. "We'll start by finding a way to get into the army. Once we're in, we'll have access to resources and training that could help us on our mission."
Steve nodded in agreement, his eyes alight with determination. "Sounds like a plan. But how do we get past the recruiters? They're not exactly known for letting just anyone in."
Ethan rubbed his chin thoughtfully, his mind racing with possibilities. "Well, we could always try the old 'fake it till you make it' approach," he suggested with a grin. "You know, strut in there like we own the place and dazzle them with our charm and good looks."
Steve chuckled at the idea, shaking his head in amusement. "I'm not sure charm alone will be enough to convince them, but it's worth a shot."
Just then, a voice interrupted their conversation, causing them both to jump in surprise. "Hey there, fellas. What's got you two looking so serious?"
They turned to see a young man approaching them, a cocky grin on his face and a devil-may-care attitude in his step. It was Bucky Barnes, Steve's childhood friend and partner-in-crime.
"Hey, Buck," Steve greeted him with a smile. "We're just trying to figure out a way to get into the army."
Bucky's grin faltered for a moment as he glanced at Steve, concern flickering in his eyes. "Steve, you know you can't join the army. Not with your... condition," he said gently, his tone tinged with worry.
Steve sighed, running a hand through his hair in frustration. "I know, Buck. But I can't just sit back and do nothing while everyone else goes off to fight for their country," he replied, determination burning in his eyes.
Ethan watched the exchange with interest, realizing for the first time the depth of Steve's longing to serve his country. It was a humbling reminder that heroism came in many forms, and sometimes the greatest acts of courage were the ones done in the face of adversity.
"Well, if you're set on joining the army, then count me in too," Bucky declared, his grin returning with renewed vigor. "After all, what are friends for if not to get into trouble together?"
Steve said with a smile. "This is Ethan, he's a friend. Ethan, meet Bucky Barnes."
Ethan extended a hand, offering a friendly handshake. "Nice to meet you, Bucky," he said with a grin.
Bucky returned the handshake with a firm grip, his grin widening. "Likewise, Ethan. So, what's the plan?"
As Ethan began to explain their strategy to Bucky, Steve's thoughts drifted to the upcoming Stark Expo. He remembered hearing about it and wondered if there might be an opportunity there to further their goals. Perhaps they could find some leads or even make connections that could help them in their mission.
"We should keep an eye out for anything related to the Stark Expo," Steve suggested, interrupting Ethan's explanation. "It's coming up soon, and who knows what kind of opportunities it might present for us."
And so, with their trio now complete, Ethan, Steve, and Bucky set out to devise a plan to infiltrate the army and embark on their journey to become the heroes they were destined to be.
With the Stark Expo looming on the horizon, Ethan, Steve, and Bucky eagerly made their way through the bustling streets of New York City. The air crackled with anticipation, and the trio couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement as they approached the grand event.
As they entered the Expo grounds, they were greeted by a dazzling array of sights and sounds. From sleek, futuristic gadgets to larger-than-life displays, the Expo was a feast for the senses, and Ethan couldn't help but feel like a kid in a candy store.
"Wow, would you look at that?" Ethan exclaimed, pointing excitedly at a display showcasing the latest inventions from Stark Industries. "I've never seen anything like it!"
Steve and Bucky chuckled at Ethan's enthusiasm, exchanging amused glances. "Easy there, Ethan. We've got a mission to focus on, remember?" Steve reminded him, though a smile played at the corners of his lips.
"Right, right, focus," Ethan muttered, tearing his gaze away from the shiny gadgets. "So, where do we start looking for the recruitment center?"
Bucky scanned the crowd, his eyes narrowing in concentration. "I heard it's somewhere near the main stage," he said, gesturing in the direction of the bustling central area. "Let's head that way and see if we can spot it."
With a nod of agreement, the trio set off through the throngs of people, weaving their way through the crowd with practiced ease. Along the way, they encountered all manner of strange and interesting sights, from eccentric inventors showcasing their latest creations to costumed performers entertaining the masses.
"Remind me again why we're here?" Bucky muttered under his breath, shooting Ethan a sideways glance.
Ethan grinned sheepishly. "Hey, you said it yourself – what are friends for if not to get into trouble together?" he replied, flashing Bucky a mischievous grin.
Bucky shook his head with a chuckle, unable to suppress a smile. "Fair point," he conceded, his tone laced with amusement.
As they continued their search for the recruitment center, Ethan couldn't help but marvel at the sheer spectacle of the Expo. It was like stepping into a whole new world, one filled with endless possibilities and untold adventures.
Finally, after what felt like hours of wandering, they spotted a cluster of tents bearing the insignia of the United States Army. "I think we've found it," Steve said, his eyes lighting up with excitement.
Weekly Power Status
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Ranking 
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