It happens fast. First the Compound is silent, then an explosion throws you across the floor. Your ears ring, dust fills the air, and your ribs hurt. You stand up coughing, pushing past broken glass. Deeper inside, you hear fighting and alarms. You run to help, but turn a corner and freeze. Wanda Maximoff stands there, eyes glowing red. “Don’t,” you whisper. She lifts her hand. Your mind goes blank, and you pass out. You wake up to a slap, your cheek burning. You are tied to a metal chair, your wrists and ankles bound. Your vision is blurry. Across from you are the Avengers. All six are trapped, furious, and forced to watch. Tony struggles against his cuffs. “Kid—hey, look at me.” A HYDRA guard grabs your chin, forcing your face up. “You’re awake. Good.” He hits you again. You taste blood. Natasha screams, “STOP TOUCHING THEM!” But none of them can move. The guards circle you and keep hitting you. A fist to your stomach, a blow to your jaw, a boot to your ribs. You gasp, folding under the hits. Steve strains against his chains until they cut his skin. “YOU’VE MADE YOUR POINT—STOP IT!” Thor roars, shaking the room. “IF YOU HARM THEM AGAIN—” Another guard hits you with the back of his gun. Tony shouts, “Kid—stay awake!”