Chapter 3
Bucky Barnes and Helmut Zemo hadn't seen each other in years, since the time they were held as captive prisoners in a high-security facility. They went their separate ways after that, and they both assumed their paths would never again cross.
Years later, Bucky found himself in a remote part of Europe, on a mission to track down a terrorist cell. As he moved through the dark alleys and back streets of the city, he felt a sudden sense of dread. Someone was following him.
He stopped, turned around, and there in the shadows was Helmut Zemo. They stared at each other for a long moment, both filled with a sense of deep apprehension.
"What do you want, Zemo?" asked Bucky.
"I need your help," said Zemo, his voice strained.
Bucky raised a skeptical eyebrow. "Why would I ever help you?"
Zemo hesitated for a moment, then sighed. "You remember the people who held us captive? I have reason to believe they've taken hostages here in this city. Innocent people. And I can't do it alone."
Bucky considered his words for a moment, his mind flashing back to the time they were held incarcerated together. He nodded slowly.
"Fine," he said. "I'll help you."
Bucky and Zemo navigated the streets, their senses heightened as they searched for clues. They moved from one location to the next, sometimes coming close, sometimes falling further behind.
But in the end, with their combined efforts, they managed to uncover the terrorists' hideout. As they stormed the building, they fought side by side, neither one holding back. It was a brutal battle, but finally, they emerged victorious.
As they stood there, catching their breath, Bucky turned to Zemo. "Why did you ask me for help?"
Zemo looked down at the ground for a moment, then met Bucky's gaze. "Because I knew you were the only one who understood what it was like to go through something like that. The only one who could truly empathize."
Bucky nodded in understanding. He realized that perhaps, in some way, he and Zemo had become unlikely allies. They didn't have to like each other, but they could work together when the stakes were high.
And for now, that was enough.