December's cold deepened as New York settled into winter, and my life found a new equilibrium.
The Stark Expo incident had made headlines for days—"Drone Attack at Stark Industries Event," "Tony Stark Saves Hundreds from Terrorist Attack," "Hammer Industries CEO Arrested for Conspiracy." The media circus was intense, but SHIELD kept my name out of it, which I appreciated.
Being Level 3 SHIELD Consultant came with significant perks. My monthly retainer jumped to $12,000, assignment pay increased to $5,000-$8,000 depending on complexity, and I now had access to Level 4 databases and better equipment.
More importantly, I had genuine clearance to work directly with field agents on complex operations.
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LEVEL 3 CONSULTANT BENEFITS
Financial: Monthly Retainer: $12,000
Assignment Pay: $5,000-$8,000
Equipment Budget: $5,000/month
Access: SHIELD Database: Level 4 (significant intel)
Secure Facilities: Most SHIELD installations Equipment
Requisition: Advanced options available
Authority: Field Coordination: Can direct agents in crisis situations
Emergency Response: Priority response from SHIELD teams
Medical/Legal: Full coverage and protection
Current Monthly Income: SHIELD: $20,000 (retainer + assignments) Investments: $8,000
Total: ~$28,000/month
Total Assets: $645,000
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The money was nice, but what really mattered was the access. Level 4 databases meant I could see SHIELD's threat assessments, ongoing operations (non-classified ones), and preparation for the Avengers Initiative.
I spent a quiet evening going through files, piecing together what SHIELD knew versus what I knew from metaknowledge.
They had files on:
Bruce Banner (Hulk) - Location unknown, considered dangerous but not hostile
Steve Rogers (Captain America) - Listed as "deceased 1945" but with an asterisk and "Arctic Recovery Operation - Classified"
Thor - No file yet, just references to "anomalous readings in New Mexico"
Clint Barton (Hawkeye) - Active SHIELD agent, top marksman
Tony Stark - Extensive file, now classified as "Avengers Initiative Candidate - Approved"
Natasha Romanoff - My girlfriend's file was fascinating. Redacted heavily, but I could see hints of her past. Red Room, dozens of operations, an impressive kill count, and a note: "Exceptional operative. Trust with reservations."
That last part hurt to read. SHIELD still didn't fully trust her, even after years of service.
"Find anything interesting?" Natasha's voice came from behind me.
I jumped, closing the laptop quickly. She'd let herself into my apartment—I'd given her a key weeks ago—and was holding takeout bags.
"Just reviewing files. Trying to understand the bigger picture."
"And what picture is that?" She set the food on the table, unpacking Chinese food.
"SHIELD's preparing for something major. The Avengers Initiative isn't just a concept anymore—Fury's actively recruiting. Banner's on the radar, there's something about the Arctic, and there are references to New Mexico that suggest something big is coming."
She was quiet for a moment. "You're not wrong. Fury's convinced we're heading toward larger threats. Enhanced individuals are multiplying, technology is advancing rapidly, and there are... other factors he doesn't share with most people."
"Other factors?"
"Classified, even from me. But I know he's worried. Nick Fury doesn't worry easily." She handed me a container of lo mein. "Which is why he's building the Avengers. A response team for threats beyond normal capability."
"And where do I fit in that?"
"You're support. Intelligence, crisis management, civilian coordination. Not frontline combat." She looked at me seriously. "Promise me you understand that distinction. You're good, Alex, but you're not super-soldier or powered armor good. Your role is different."
"I know. I'm not trying to be a hero."
"You say that, but Monaco and the Stark Expo suggest otherwise."
"I was helping in ways I could. Not charging in blindly."
She smiled slightly. "Fair point. You are usually smart about it. Just... stay smart, okay? I can't lose you."
"You won't. I promise."
My training intensified as winter progressed. Sarah introduced me to more advanced techniques, and Natasha's weekly sessions became genuinely challenging.
"You're approaching peak human capabilities," Sarah observed one morning after I'd successfully held my own against one of her advanced students. "Not quite there yet, but close. Your progress is honestly remarkable."
"Good coaching."
"That's part of it. But you also have natural aptitude and serious dedication." She checked her notes. "I'm recommending you for SHIELD's advanced combat certification. It's optional for consultants, but it would give you more operational flexibility."
"What does that involve?"
"Two-week intensive course. Weapons training, advanced hand-to-hand, tactical operations, emergency response. It's tough, but I think you're ready."
I thought about it. Two weeks of intensive training would mean time away from regular assignments and Natasha, but the certification would be valuable.
"When's the next session?"
"January. After the holidays. Interested?"
"Very."
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OPPORTUNITY DETECTED
SHIELD Advanced Combat Certification
Duration: 2 weeks intensive
Difficulty: High
Requirements: Level 3+ Consultant, Instructor Recommendation
Benefits:
Combat Prowess +15 minimum
Multiple new skills
Weapons proficiency (all categories)
Advanced tactical training
Field operation authorization
Significant reputation boost
Recommendation: Accept. This will position you well for upcoming events and provide skills that could save your life.
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Christmas came with unexpected warmth despite the cold weather.
Natasha and I spent Christmas Eve at my apartment, cooking dinner together—my Cooking Mastery skill combined with her surprising competence in the kitchen made for an excellent meal. We exchanged gifts: I got her a first edition of "The Art of War" in Russian (which made her tear up), and she got me a set of high-quality tactical gear from SHIELD's equipment division.
"Practical and romantic," I said, examining the body armor that could stop small arms fire while being comfortable enough for daily wear.
"That's me. Practical romance." She kissed me softly. "I want you protected. Especially with what's coming."
"You keep saying that. 'What's coming.' Do you know something specific?"
"No. Just... intuition. The world's getting stranger. More dangerous. We need to be ready."
Christmas Day, Tony invited us to a small gathering at Stark Tower—the construction was nearly complete, and he wanted to show it off. It was just us, Pepper, Happy, Rhodey, and surprisingly, Phil Coulson.
"Fury insisted I come," Coulson explained. "Something about 'maintaining positive relations with Stark.'"
"Translation: babysitting duty," Tony said cheerfully. "But I appreciate it. You guys are good company. Even if half of you are spies."
"We prefer 'intelligence professionals,'" Natasha said dryly.
The tower was impressive. Stark's arc reactor technology powered the entire building, making it completely energy independent. The penthouse was ridiculous—floor-to-ceiling windows, automated everything, a fully stocked bar that would make most clubs jealous.
"When this is done, I'm making this headquarters," Tony announced. "Stark Industries main operations, my personal workshop, and—" he looked at Coulson, "—possibly space for other initiatives if SHIELD asks nicely."
"I'll pass that along to Director Fury," Coulson said neutrally, but I could see the interest in his eyes.
Tony was offering Stark Tower as Avengers headquarters. It was happening.
After dinner, Tony pulled me aside while the others were distracted by Pepper showing off the building's features.
"Carter. Real talk. You saved my life. Twice now. Monaco and the Expo."
"You had it handled—"
"Bullshit. I was dying in Monaco, and at the Expo, your smoke grenades gave us the opening we needed against Vanko." He looked serious, which was rare for Tony. "I don't forget things like that. You're on my very short list of people I actually trust. Which means if you ever need anything—anything at all—you call me. Resources, technology, legal help, whatever. I've got your back."
"I appreciate that, Tony."
"I mean it. You're not just some SHIELD consultant to me. You're a friend. One of maybe three people I'd actually call that." He glanced toward where Pepper was talking with Rhodey. "Four if you count Happy, but he's paid to like me."
"I heard that!" Happy called from across the room.
Tony grinned, then grew serious again. "Something's coming. I can feel it. Bigger threats, weirder situations. SHIELD's preparing for something major. When it happens, I want good people around me. People I trust. You're one of them."
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MAJOR RELATIONSHIP MILESTONE
Tony Stark
Affection: 79 → 92/100 [Trusted Friend - Inner Circle]
Status Change:
Officially part of Tony's trusted circle
Access to Stark resources
Will be included in major decisions
Considered for Avengers-adjacent role
Note: This is significant. Tony Stark doesn't trust easily. You've proven yourself repeatedly, and he now sees you as essential to his support network.
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New Year's Eve was quieter. Natasha and I went to The Grindhouse, which was hosting a small party. Jade was there, Marcus the writer, some other regulars, and we rang in the new year surrounded by normal people doing normal things.
"To new beginnings," Jade toasted at midnight. "2011 is gonna be great, I can feel it."
I looked at Natasha, thinking about what was actually coming in 2011. Thor. Captain America. The Avengers forming. The Battle of New York.
"To new beginnings," I agreed, clinking glasses.
Whatever came next, we'd face it together.
January brought the advanced combat certification course.
It was held at a secure SHIELD facility upstate, isolated and intense. Twenty consultants and support personnel, all Level 3 or higher, all recommended by their handlers.
The instructors were a mix of active agents and ex-military specialists. The curriculum was brutal: firearms training, advanced hand-to-hand, tactical operations, survival skills, and scenario-based training that pushed everyone to their limits.
I excelled.
My system-enhanced attributes combined with six months of consistent training meant I was performing at the top of the class. Not perfectly—there were a few ex-special forces consultants who had years more experience—but I was competitive.
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SHIELD ADVANCED COMBAT CERTIFICATION
Week 1 Progress:
Firearms Training:
Handguns: 94/100 (Excellent)
Rifles: 89/100 (Very Good)
Shotguns: 91/100 (Very Good)
Automatic Weapons: 86/100 (Good)
Hand-to-Hand Combat:
Practical Application: 96/100 (Exceptional)
Multiple Opponents: 88/100 (Very Good)
Weapon Defense: 90/100 (Very Good)
Tactical Operations:
Team Coordination: 92/100 (Excellent)
Scenario Response: 95/100 (Exceptional)
Crisis Decision Making: 97/100 (Exceptional)
Class Ranking: 3rd out of 20
Instructor Notes: "Carter demonstrates exceptional tactical thinking and crisis management. Natural leader in team scenarios. Recommend for field operations."
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The second week was even more intense. Live-fire exercises, simulated hostage situations, and a final exam that was basically a miniature war game.
My team won.
I'd coordinated a five-person squad through a complex scenario involving hostage rescue, multiple hostile actors, and time pressure. We completed objectives with zero casualties, minimal ammunition expended, and textbook execution.
"Carter," the head instructor—a grizzled ex-Marine named Sergeant Harrison—called me aside after the exercise. "That was some of the finest tactical coordination I've seen from a consultant. You ever consider becoming a full agent?"
"I like my current role."
"Fair enough. But you've got the skills. Remember that." He handed me a certificate. "Congratulations. You passed with honors. Top marks in tactical operations and crisis management, excellent firearms scores, and your hand-to-hand is well above acceptable. You're certified for field operations."
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CERTIFICATION COMPLETE!
SHIELD Advanced Combat Certification - PASSED WITH HONORS
Final Scores: Overall: 93/100 (Top 3 in class)
Specializations: Tactical Operations, Crisis Management
Rewards:
Combat Prowess: +18 (99/100!)
Multiple new skills unlocked
Field Operation Authorization
Equipment requisition expanded
SHIELD Reputation +35
NEW SKILLS ACQUIRED:
[Firearms Proficiency - Lv.4]
Expert level with most firearms
Quick draw, tactical reloading, accuracy under stress
Can maintain and modify weapons
[Tactical Leadership - Lv.3]
Command small teams effectively
Coordinate complex operations
Make optimal decisions under pressure
[Survival Skills - Lv.2]
Basic wilderness survival
Urban survival techniques
Emergency field medicine (enhanced)
[Advanced Combat Techniques - Lv.2]
Multiple opponent fighting
Weapon integration (knife, improvised weapons)
CQC (Close Quarters Combat)
ACHIEVEMENT UNLOCKED: "Peak Human Performance" Combat Prowess at 99/100 - You are now at the absolute peak of unenhanced human capability. Only enhanced individuals and truly exceptional fighters can match you.
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When I returned to the city, Natasha picked me up from the facility. She looked me over carefully.
"You're different," she observed.
"Two weeks of intensive training will do that."
"No, I mean..." She studied me. "Your posture, the way you move. You're more confident. More dangerous."
"Is that a problem?"
"Not at all. Just observing." She kissed me. "How'd you do?"
"Passed with honors. Top three in the class."
"Of course you did." She smiled proudly. "My boyfriend, the badass consultant."
"I prefer 'highly competent support specialist.'"
"That too."
Back at my apartment, I found a package waiting. SHIELD delivery, marked "Level 3+ Authorized Equipment."
Inside was a set of upgraded gear:
Concealed body armor (lightweight, stops up to .45 caliber)
Tactical earpiece with enhanced encryption
Combat knife (balanced for throwing or close combat)
Compact pistol (Glock 19, with two extra magazines)
Emergency medical kit (military grade)
Smoke grenades (improved formula, faster deployment)
Taser (compact, 50,000 volts)
And a note from Coulson: "Congratulations on the certification. You've earned the right to carry. Use it wisely. - PC"
I now had authorization to carry a concealed weapon in most states, courtesy of SHIELD credentials.
"They're really trusting you now," Natasha observed, examining the gear. "This is field agent level equipment."
"Still a consultant. Just a better equipped one."
"Still." She picked up the pistol, checked it with practiced ease, then handed it back. "You know how to use all this?"
"Spent two weeks learning."
"Show me."
We spent the next hour in my apartment with her testing my skills. She'd call out scenarios—"someone's charging you from the left," "hostage situation, identify priority target," "your weapon jams, what do you do?"—and I'd respond, drawing the weapon, demonstrating tactics, explaining my thinking.
She was impressed, which was hard to achieve with Black Widow.
"Okay. You're actually competent now. Like, legitimately dangerous." She holstered the pistol for me, adjusting the concealed carry position. "I'm still better, obviously."
"Obviously."
"But you could handle yourself in most situations. That's... good. Scary, but good." She touched my face gently. "Just please, please don't make me regret being okay with you having these skills. Don't do anything stupid."
"I promise to only do moderately stupid things."
"I'll take it."
Life settled back into rhythm, but with new elements.
I carried now, the weight of the concealed pistol a constant reminder of how much my life had changed. I completed assignments with increased confidence and competence. My monthly income was substantial, my savings growing, my skills sharp.
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CURRENT STATUS - Mid-January 2011
Level: 12 (25,840/30,000 EXP)
SP: 19,830
Assets: $687,000
Attributes: STR: 50/100
AGI: 57/100
END: 53/100
INT: 46/100
CHA: 61/100
LCK: 38/100
CHARM: 67/100
Combat Prowess: 99/100 (Peak Human)
Emotional Intelligence: 48/100
Key Skills:
Practical Combat: Lv.5
Firearms Proficiency: Lv.4
Tactical Leadership: Lv.3
Crisis Management: Lv.4
Smooth Talker: Lv.3
Equipment:
Full tactical loadout (concealed carry approved)
SHIELD credentials (Level 3)
Emergency response gear
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Mid-January, Coulson called me into SHIELD headquarters for a briefing.
"We've got a situation developing," he said, pulling up satellite imagery of New Mexico. "Anomalous energy readings in a small town. Local reports of unusual atmospheric phenomena. Fury wants eyes on it."
My heart rate picked up. This was it. Thor.
"What kind of anomalous readings?"
"Unknown. But they're consistent with some theoretical research into Einstein-Rosen bridges. Wormholes." He looked at me seriously. "We're sending a team to investigate. Agent Barton will lead, with scientific support and a few consultants for civilian interface. I want you there."
"When do we leave?"
"Three days. Pack for desert conditions and potentially hostile situations. This could be nothing, or it could be significant." He paused. "Agent Romanoff has been assigned to a different operation. You'll be working with Barton and his team independently."
First mission without Natasha. First major mission where I knew exactly what was coming.
Thor was about to arrive on Earth.
And I was going to be there when it happened.