The HYDRA operative strains against his bonds, secured to a maintenance catwalk thirty stories above an abandoned construction site. His breathing comes in panicked gasps, eyes wild with terror as he stares at me through the blood trickling from a scalp wound. I've been at this for seventeen minutes, and his resistance is finally cracking.
"Last chance," I tell him, my voice modulated through the suit's systems into something barely human. "The Winter Soldier deployment schedule. Where are they keeping him between missions?"
"I told you—I don't have that clearance!" His voice breaks with genuine fear. "I'm just security detail for the tech transfers!"
I grab him by his tactical vest and hoist him over the railing, his feet dangling in empty space, nothing between him and the concrete below except my grip. His scream echoes through the skeletal structure of the half-finished building.
"Security detail means you know security protocols. Access points. Transportation routes." I lean in close, the suit's eyes glowing unnaturally in the darkness. "Tell me about the Eastern Seaboard operations. All of them."
"Jesus Christ, please!" Tears mix with the blood on his face now. "They'll kill me if I talk!"
"They need to find you first," I counter. "And right now, your odds of survival depend entirely on how useful you make yourself to me."
I let his vest slip slightly in my grasp. Another scream, higher-pitched this time, edged with the understanding that I'm completely serious.
"Okay! Okay!" He's sobbing now, composure shattered. "There are five primary facilities on the East Coast. I only know about three—the New York storage site you hit last week, a processing center in Newark, and the main distribution hub in Baltimore. Everything comes through Baltimore before going to the satellite locations."
"Who runs Baltimore?"
"Agent Sitwell! Jasper Sitwell coordinates all East Coast logistics!"
The baldy with the glasses? Jasper Sitwell—SHIELD agent and secret HYDRA operative from the films. Confirmation that HYDRA's infiltration of SHIELD is fully operational in this timeline, exactly as I remember from the movies, yep.
"Tell me about Sitwell."
The operative's eyes widen. "Y-You can't touch Sitwell. He's SHIELD. Protected. He has resources you can't imagine."
"I'm counting on it," I reply, then pull him back to relative safety on the catwalk. "The Baltimore facility. Address. Security details. Everything."
He spills everything he knows—access codes, patrol schedules, security system specifications. Useful intelligence, though likely to be changed once his disappearance is noted. The real prize is the confirmation of Sitwell's involvement and HYDRA's organizational structure on the East Coast.
When he's exhausted his useful knowledge, I fire a tranquilizer dart into his neck. As consciousness fades from his eyes, I secure him with specialized restraints and activate an anonymous tip to FBI organized crime units. The evidence I've planted on him—financial records linking him to known criminal organizations—will ensure detention long enough for HYDRA to disavow him, cutting off any path back to their operations.
It's brutal. Manipulative. Some would even say that's not how Batman would typically operate. I say, I don't care. I'm Batman. Batman is me in this universe....
And HYDRA represents a threat beyond conventional criminal activity, a cancer growing within the institutions meant to protect this world. Conventional methods won't suffice against an organization that's spent decades infiltrating governments and intelligence agencies.
I know the fate of this world, letting bullshit get in the way of the mission would be a waste of this opportunity.
As I launch myself from the construction site, wings extending to catch the night air, my comm system activates with Bernard's distinctive tone.
"Sir, we're detecting an unusual energy signature in New Mexico. Perhaps you should return to the Cave immediately."
"Can it wait, Bernard? I'm following up on the Sitwell lead while the intelligence is fresh."
"I believe not, sir. The pattern matches nothing in our database, but shows similarities to theoretical models for Einstein-Rosen bridges."
My breath catches. Thor. The events of the first Thor film must be starting, right on schedule with the original MCU timeline.
So it begins...
"Send me the coordinates. I'm on my way back now."
I adjust my course toward the nearest discrete transport hub where the Batplane is concealed. Custom-built using Oscorp aerospace technology with significant modifications, it represents one of Batman's most significant mobility assets—capable of hypersonic speeds while maintaining stealth profiles undetectable by conventional radar.
During the flight back to New York, I review the energy signature data Bernard has transmitted. The readings are consistent with what I remember of the Bifrost from MCU lore—a massive energy discharge accompanying Thor's arrival on Earth. If the timeline holds true, events in New Mexico will escalate over the coming days as Thor attempts to reclaim Mjolnir and Loki implements his schemes.
The Cave's main chamber illuminates as I enter, systems activating in sequence at my arrival. Bernard awaits at the central command station, the main display showing satellite imagery of a remote area in New Mexico with energy pattern overlays highlighting the anomalous readings.
"The signature appeared approximately forty-three minutes ago," he explains as I remove the cowl. "Initial burst consistent with massive energy discharge, followed by localized atmospheric disturbances. I've taken the liberty of redirecting one of our surveillance drones to the area."
"Good thinking. What's the ETA on visual confirmation?"
"Approximately twelve minutes. I've also begun monitoring all SHIELD communication channels within our capabilities. They're mobilizing significant resources toward the location."
I study the data with growing certainty. "This is it, Bernard. The first major interdimensional contact this world has experienced." At least, the first they're aware of, considering my own interdimensional status.
"Shall I prepare the contingency package we discussed for extraterrestrial encounters?"
"Not yet. This isn't hostile—at least not initially. It's first contact with Asgard, specifically Thor's arrival. We observe for now, gathering intelligence but not interfering."
I don't need to get directly involved with this, not yet.
Bernard raises an eyebrow, the subtle expression speaking volumes about his curiosity regarding my certainty. I've shared some of my "foreknowledge" with him, carefully framed as intelligence acquired through unspecified means, but the full truth of my interdimensional origin remains private. And it always will.
"Very good, sir. The surveillance drone is approaching visual range now."
The main display shifts to live feed from our high-altitude drone—a marvel of engineering developed through Oscorp's aerospace division under my direction, officially for atmospheric research but actually serving Batman's global monitoring needs. The New Mexico desert stretches below, and at the center of the frame, a distinctive pattern burned into the earth—the intricate knotwork design left by the Bifrost.
"Enhance sector four," I instruct the system. The image zooms and clarifies, revealing SHIELD vehicles already establishing a perimeter around the site. "They're moving faster than expected. Fury must have had protocols in place for exactly this scenario."
"Indeed. Their response time suggests predefined contingencies for extraterrestrial contact."
I access additional systems, bringing multiple displays to life around the central monitor. "Activate full spectrum analysis. I want everything—atmospheric composition changes, radiation signatures, electromagnetic field variations. This is our first opportunity to gather hard data on Asgardian transport technology."
As the systems compile the requested analysis, I allow myself a moment of reflection. The MCU timeline is progressing largely as I remember it, despite my presence and Batman's activities. Thor's arrival means the pieces are moving toward the formation of the Avengers, the Chitauri invasion, and eventually, Thanos.
"Sir," Bernard interrupts my thoughts, "there's something else you should see. Oscorp's quarterly projections have arrived."
He hands me a tablet displaying financial data that immediately lifts my mood. Under my guidance, Oscorp has undergone significant transformation over the past months—pivoting from primarily military contracts toward diversified technology development across multiple sectors. The results are showing in both financial performance and corporate culture.
"Thirty-four percent growth in the medical technology division," I note with satisfaction. "And the adaptive materials research is paying dividends beyond our projections."
"Your leadership has been transformative," Bernard observes. "Though I believe your father remains... concerned about the direction of these changes."
"Norman's concerns are noted and ignored," I reply, setting the tablet aside. "His vision for Oscorp was always too limited, too focused on weapons development and military applications. We're building something more sustainable now."
My "takeover" of Oscorp has been more evolution than revolution—gradually assuming control of key divisions, redirecting research priorities, cultivating board relationships that strengthen my position while isolating Norman. He remains CEO officially, but increasingly, the company responds to my directives rather than his.
It's a dangerous game. Norman's deterioration continues according to the pattern I anticipated—the Goblin persona developing beneath the surface of his public identity, manifesting in increasingly erratic behavior and obsessive focus on the Prometheus program. Eventually, confrontation will be inevitable, but for now, the delicate balance serves my purposes.
"The enhanced Batsuit materials have been delivered to the fabrication chamber," Bernard informs me, transitioning smoothly back to Batman operations. "The integration of Dr. Warren's carbon lattice technology has exceeded performance projections in preliminary testing."
"Good. We'll need every advantage in the coming months." I turn back to the New Mexico surveillance. "What about the expanded operational capabilities we discussed? Have you identified potential secure locations beyond the East Coast?"
Bernard activates a secondary display showing a map of the United States with highlighted points. "I've established preliminary criteria for potential expansion sites—population density sufficient to justify Batman's presence, proximity to transportation hubs for efficient deployment, and existing infrastructure that could be adapted for our purposes. Chicago, Los Angeles, and Atlanta appear most promising initially."
"Start with Chicago," I decide. "It provides strategic positioning between the coasts and has urban density patterns similar to New York, allowing for transfer of established operational methodology."
The expansion represents a significant evolution in Batman's scope—moving from localized vigilante to something approaching a national security operation. The HYDRA threat justifies this escalation; their tentacles extend far beyond New York, requiring correspondingly broader response capabilities.
As we discuss logistical requirements for multi-city operations, my phone vibrates with a text from Peter: "Movie night still on? MJ says you're probably bailing on us again for 'corporate emergencies'."
I smile despite myself. Despite Batman's increasingly consuming mission, I've maintained connections with Peter and MJ—partly to preserve Harry Osborn's cover identity, but increasingly because these relationships provide necessary human anchoring amid the darkness of my nighttime activities.
"Tell MJ I'll be there," I text back. "And I'm buying the popcorn this time."
Bernard notices my expression. "Mr. Parker and Miss Watson, I presume?"
"Movie night at Peter's. I should make an appearance, maintain normal social patterns."
"Most wise, sir. Even Batman requires occasional respite from the cowl."
I return my attention to the New Mexico situation, where SHIELD's presence has expanded significantly in the hour since initial detection. Their efficiency is impressive—full containment protocols implemented, scientific teams deployed, security perimeter established beyond civilian observation range. Fury runs a tight operation.
"Keep the drone on station," I instruct Bernard. "Rotate surveillance in four-hour shifts to avoid detection. I want continuous monitoring of the situation as it develops."
"Very good, sir. And may I suggest a few hours of rest before your social engagement? You've been operational for nearly thirty-seven hours continuously."
He's right, of course. Even with enhanced physiology, sustained operations without recovery periods diminish effectiveness. I've been pushing harder since discovering HYDRA's extent, but burnout serves no one.
"Wake me if there are significant developments in New Mexico," I concede, moving toward the Cave's living quarters.
Hours later, freshly rested and dressed in casual civilian attire, I find myself in Peter's modest living room, wedged between him and MJ on a couch that's definitely not designed for three people. May Parker bustles in the kitchen, insisting on providing snacks despite my offers to order food.
"So," MJ says, eyeing me skeptically, "The infamous boy wonder actually remembered movie night. Mark the calendar, Pete."
"Cut him some slack," Peter counters, though his smile suggests he shares her skepticism. "Running a multi-billion dollar company probably keeps the schedule tight."
"I'm not running Oscorp," I remind them, maintaining the fiction that Norman remains fully in charge. "Just helping modernize some divisions."
'Not running it yet', but soon, that will chance.
MJ snorts. "Right. That's why the stock is up forty percent since you got involved, and why every business publication is running profiles on 'The Osborn Renaissance.'"
Why does she know this much? Is sh-whatever.
"The business stuff is boring," I deflect. "What movie did you pick?"
Peter groans dramatically. "She's making us watch some three-hour Swedish film about existential dread."
"It's Bergman!" MJ protests, shoving his shoulder. "It's a classic!"
"It's pretentious," Peter stage-whispers to me.
Their friendly bickering continues as May brings in homemade appetizers that I accept with genuine appreciation. These moments of normalcy, of being just Harry among friends, provide balance to Batman's isolation. I took pride in this new life, that doesn't mean chilling out is off the menu.
The evening progresses with surprising comfort, the film proving more engaging than Peter predicted, the conversation afterward ranging from cinema to science to MJ's journalism aspirations.
After the movie, we took a walk through Central Park despite the late hour, the spring evening mild enough to make the stroll pleasant. MJ walks slightly ahead with Peter, their conversation animated about some scientific concept I've deliberately tuned out to enjoy the walk.
It was nice outside. When you die, the little things in life suddenly become super important.
Even just taking a walk.
"Earth to Harry," MJ's voice breaks through my thoughts. She's turned back, eyebrow raised. "You planning to join the conversation, or are you mentally reviewing how amazing that movie was?"
She loves chatting shit, boy oh boy.
"Sorry," I smile, catching up to them. "Just appreciating the night. It's not often I get time away from everything.
Something in my tone must betray more than intended, because MJ's expression shifts from teasing to genuinely concerned. "You okay? You seem... I don't know. Carrying something heavy lately."
Well, yeah. Most of these people are going to die during a fucking alien invasion soon. So, that kind of sucks. Millions will die (most likely) because of Thanos.
Lots to think about.
"Normal stress," I lie, assuring her with a casual shrug. "Nothing some fresh air and good company can't fix."
She studies me with that penetrating gaze that makes me wonder sometimes if she has her own form of spider-sense, then mercifully changes the subject. Does she have a bullshit alarm?
Later that night, back in the Cave after my time out with Peter and MJ, I find Bernard monitoring multiple feeds from our New Mexico surveillance. The situation has developed substantially in my absence.
"Thor has made contact with humans," Bernard reports as I approach. "A Dr. Jane Foster and her research team encountered him shortly after the Bifrost event. SHIELD has since established a containment facility around an object embedded in the desert floor."
"Mjolnir," I confirm, studying the satellite imagery of the rapidly constructed SHIELD compound. "Thor's hammer, which he can't currently lift because he's been deemed unworthy."
Could I? Meh, unlikely.
Bernard has grown accustomed to my detailed knowledge of events that haven't yet fully transpired, accepting the information without questioning its source. "Local authorities have attempted to remove the object without success. It appears immovable by conventional means."
"It will remain that way until Thor proves himself worthy," I explain, accessing additional surveillance feeds. "Keep monitoring the situation, particularly any unusual atmospheric disturbances. Asgard will be watching these events closely. This will not be the last opportunity for direct contact."
The next forty-eight hours unfold largely as I remember from the films—Thor's failed attempt to reclaim Mjolnir, his detention by SHIELD, Loki's machinations behind the scenes. Our surveillance capabilities were top fucking notch, thank you Oscorp.
The end arrives as expected—the Destroyer, sent by Loki, wreaking havoc in the small New Mexico town where Thor has been staying with Foster and her team. From the Cave's command center, I watch through satellite feeds as the battle unfolds, the seemingly outmatched Thor facing the implacable mechanical entity.
"Should we not intervene, sir?" Bernard asks as the destruction escalates. "The Batman's capabilities might prove useful in this confrontation."
Nope.
I shake my head, eyes fixed on the display. "We'd never arrive in time, even with the Batplane at maximum speed. Besides, this plays out as it needs to."
As if on cue, Thor's sacrifice for his friends triggers his redemption. Mjolnir flies to his hand, power and armor materializing around him as he reclaims his worthiness and his identity as the God of Thunder. The battle concludes exactly as I remember it—the Destroyer defeated, Thor reunited with his Asgardian allies, SHIELD attempting to contain the situation and debrief the witnesses.
"Remarkable," Bernard murmurs, watching Thor's triumphant recovery. "Truly gods among us."
"No, not gods," I correct him. "Advanced beings from another realm, with technology and abilities that appear magical to us. But fundamentally, still people—with strengths and weaknesses that can be used for good, or evil."
I rub my eyes and slump back in my chair, the weight of what I've just witnessed sinking in. A fucking Norse god just showed up on Earth. Not some enhanced person, not a tech genius in a flying suit—an actual Asgardian deity throwing down in a New Mexico town that'll never be the same.
I almost laugh at the absurdity of it all. Here I am, Batman, hunting HYDRA, and street criminals, while literal gods are duking it out with giant metal destroyers. I knew this was coming, but seeing it actually happen makes my operations feel almost... small.
But they're not. That's the thing about this universe—the threats exist at every level. Some need thunder gods. Others need someone in the shadows who can infiltrate HYDRA before they trigger global catastrophe.
As Thor disappears in that blinding rainbow light, I make my call. "Bernard, step up the Chicago plans. We need to move faster on the expansion. Batman needs to operate beyond New York before all this escalates further."
"Of course, sir." Bernard doesn't even blink at what would sound like megalomaniacal expansion to anyone else. "Would you like to depart tonight to evaluate the Chicago location yourself?"
I shake my head, still transfixed by the satellite feed showing SHIELD's cleanup crews swarming the battleground. "Not yet. Those energy readings from the Bifrost, they're unlike anything we've seen. I want every scrap of data analyzed. There might be something we can adapt for our tech."
Part of me feels a weird sense of relief watching this play out almost exactly as I remember from the movies. With all the changes I've made, saving Ben Parker, becoming Batman instead of Peter becoming Spider-Man, I wasn't sure if the major events would still happen. But they are. The universe is still hitting its key beats, even with my fingerprints all over it.
It's time for the final step.