Chapter 211: C204
The atmosphere in the S.H.I.E.L.D. headquarters was tense. Inside the Information Control Center, a massive screen dominated the front wall.
The screen displayed a live feed from a S.H.I.E.L.D. drone, showing a small Mexican town in the grip of chaos. Heavy rain blurred the image, casting the scene in a gloomy, oppressive tone. Despite the challenging conditions, the drone's advanced adjustments ensured the picture was sufficiently clear.
Nick Fury and Agent Hill stood at the forefront, intently watching the feed. Behind them, other agents had risen from their seats, their focus unwavering. There was little anyone at headquarters could do at the moment.
"Director, the situation in the town is spiraling out of control," came Coulson's voice, his tone edged with anxiety. "I've ordered our people to evacuate the area, but the impact has been devastating. We've already lost over a dozen agents."
Fury crossed his arms, resting one hand on his chin as he paced back and forth. His expression was inscrutable, his mind clearly at work. He seemed to be waiting for something—or someone.
Moments later, a soft female voice broke through the tense silence, transmitted through the comms. Everyone, including Coulson, heard it.
"Director Fury, we've reached the skies above the town and have identified the enemy," the voice reported.
"Jean," Fury replied, his tone calm and measured, "this is the Avengers' first battle as a team. We can't directly intervene, but we'll provide support where needed. This is their test, a chance to adapt and work together. Remember, their decisions in battle don't need my approval."
"Understood!" Jean responded before cutting the communication.
Hill's gaze shifted to the screen, where frost had overtaken the town, spreading relentlessly. Among the chaos, tall alien soldiers marched in formation. Her voice was cold as she remarked, "Sir, this appears to be Asgardian civil strife. If this fails, we could face significant pressure from Asgard."
"Trust me, Hill," Fury replied calmly, "this may look like a crisis, but in reality, it's just a friendly exercise."
Hill blinked in surprise. "A friendly exercise?" she repeated, the metaphor catching her off guard. Her confusion deepened as the screen displayed a boy and girl standing beside Thor in the town.