video; un: sg.rogers

[livingsymbol]

[He's out of practice. Steve is quiet for a second as he starts the transmission, bracing himself.]

My name is Steve Rogers. In my world, I'm also known as Captain America. Some of you might know me, but that's not what I want to talk about.

[Well, not about his work specifically. He does wants to talk about work.]

We're all here for different reasons and I'm not going to pry into anyone's business, but I think there are some of us who are used to defending people in our home worlds and if you are, I'd like to work with you. If you're from a world like mine, then this city is quieter than others. But that doesn't mean we don't need to look out for it. The wildlife and technical problems still need attention. I know I'm asking you for more time on top of the work we're already doing with the Perimeter Guard and official positions, but I'd like to make that extra effort. A lot of you are probably better suited to organizing this than I am. If you have projects going, I want to join you. I want us to share those ideas and work together to help the city.

[His posture gets subtly more stern, with his chin raising and his shoulders straight. This part may not just be a general appeal for teamwork.]

It's easy to overlook some problems when most of the big issues are under control. We get by well enough. It's a nice place. I'm not going to let anything put this place in danger. I'm going to be on guard, to make sure nothing gets out of hand. I'm sure this doesn't apply to everyone, but if you're interested in a little community service, maybe we can do that together. Thanks for listening.

Comments

[livingsymbol]

You say that like I have doubts.

[dothelokimotion]

[ His expression melts into something warm and fond. ]

I know you don't.

[livingsymbol]

You're welcome to join us, Loki. We're going to make this work, right?

[This is his step forward in a lot of ways.]

[dothelokimotion]

[ Loki has never forgotten that he does love Steve, even when he has doubts, uncertainties. He has never stepped back, never given up and it heartens him to know Steve is the same. ]

We will.

[livingsymbol]

[There are always doubts and Steve is aware of that no matter how determined he is. He's relieved to see Loki relax and echo his sentiment.]

I know it's hard to change, but if we're here, we should take the chance. While we're here, we can do things our way.

[dothelokimotion]

[ He can't help a slight tease. ]

You just want me in your club.

[livingsymbol]

I want you on my side. Without question, it's what I want.

[ Loki might tease, but Steve will always answer that one honestly. ]

It's a nice club.

[dothelokimotion]

[ There's a sliver of warmth trailing down his spine at that. There's nothing quite as heady for Loki as being wanted. He'll never get used to it. ]

I'll see how it goes.

[livingsymbol]

All right. I'll let you test it out.

[ Even that much consideration is a victory for Steve. He's come a long way. Thor would be proud, but of course Steve doesn't say that. ]

[dothelokimotion]

[ He smiles, pleased that he hasn't been pushed too hard. Loki still doesn't see himself as heroic material . . . but he hasn't really done anything particularly villainous in well . . . years now. ]

You still have to break the bad news.

[livingsymbol]

I'll take full responsibility for it. And I'm sure it will be fine.

[dothelokimotion]

[ Loki is less sure, but has full faith in Steve steam-rolling people over. ]

Are there any other new contenders?

[livingsymbol]

Well, we don't really have a club yet. [Are you surprised, Loki? He's already taking action.]

But I'm consulting with some of the other Avengers to see what they think about making one. We can recruit from there.

[dothelokimotion]

[ Maybe a little. ]

I have no doubt they'll see the need for it.

[livingsymbol]

I hope so. I'm not so sure.

[The reception has been mixed, but Steve can be content even if he has to go out on his own.]

[dothelokimotion]

I'm sure. There is no end of missions that need to be done.

[livingsymbol]

[Of course Loki knows just what to say. He might not have confidence in his ability to do good, but Steve sees this as proof of that as fact.]

Are you coming over?

[dothelokimotion]

[ He shoots Steve a sultry smile. ]

Of course. We need to celebrate the occasion.

[livingsymbol]

I'm not sure there's much to celebrate, but I'll take the company.

[dothelokimotion]

I'll be there shortly.