The Avenger's Lower Realm - Earth
The Battle of New York had irrevocably changed humanity's cosmic perspective. As heroes, gods, and aliens clashed in Manhattan's streets and skies, they left behind more than destroyed buildings and streets—they shattered humanity's sense of place in the universe. From this crucible of chaos emerged heroes and alliances, forcing mankind to confront an uncomfortable truth, they were not alone and were far from the apex of power among the stars.
In the struggling nation of Sokovia, the events in New York had transformed the lives of orphaned twins Wanda and Pietro Maximoff. When the sky opened above Manhattan, they had been in their homeland, their hearts still raw with grief over their parents' deaths. The siblings harbored a deep-seated resentment toward Tony Stark, whose company's weapons had destroyed their home and family, and they channeled this anger into regular anti-government protests. Like millions worldwide, they watched footage of the alien invasion with a mixture of horror and fascination.
What they couldn't have known—what no one could have known—was that at the end of that battle, something extraordinary had happened to Wanda. A crimson petal, part of the divine gift bestowed by the mysterious being called Orach, had found its way across continents to where she stood. It had merged with her essence, silent and undetected, beginning a process of transformation that would unfold gradually over the coming months.
The first changes were subtle, and Wanda attributed them to stress. She began experiencing vivid dreams—visions of infinite darkness pierced by a swirling ball of scarlet energy that seemed to call to her across some unfathomable distance. She dismissed these nightmares as simply another burden to bear in their harsh daily existence in their struggling homeland.
But then, six months later, during a particularly volatile protest against government corruption, the true nature of these changes revealed itself. As riot police moved to disperse the crowd with force, Wanda's fear and anger peaked. Acting on pure instinct, she raised her hands to shield herself—and crimson energy erupted from her palms, manifesting as a barrier that repelled three advancing officers.
"Wanda!" Pietro gasped, his eyes widening in shock. But in the next instant, his protective instincts overrode his astonishment. Before anyone else could process what had happened, Pietro pulled her away. Once they reached safety, he gripped her shoulders, his expression a mixture of fear and wonder.
"What was that?" he demanded, his voice barely above a whisper. "How did you do that?"
Trembling, Wanda confessed about the recurring dreams and the subtle changes she'd been experiencing—the increased awareness, occasional glimpses of others' thoughts, and moments when objects seemed to shift slightly in response to her emotions. Though she trusted her brother implicitly, a knot of fear formed in her stomach as she anxiously watched for rejection in his eyes.
Pietro cycled through shock, confusion, and momentary unease before noticing the fear in his sister's expression. His features softened immediately, and he pulled her into a tight embrace.
"It's okay," he whispered against her hair. "We'll figure this out together. You're still my sister—nothing changes that."
What followed were months where the twins isolated themselves to experiment with Wanda's abilities in secret. Pietro became their provider—working odd jobs or sometimes stealing—while also acting as lookout during Wanda's practice sessions. Her powers fluctuated unpredictably at first, sometimes responding to her conscious direction, other times erupting with her emotions. This volatility forced them to remain hidden, fearing what might happen if she was identified as an enhanced individual or if she accidentally terrified their neighbors.
The twins never understood the true origin of Wanda's abilities. Unknown to them, the crimson petal from Orach hadn't created her powers from nothing—it had awakened her innate genetic potential for manipulating chaos magic, abilities that had lain dormant since birth until activated by Orach's gift. This latent power was precisely why the petal had been drawn to her, seeking out her unique energy signature across continents like a beacon.
Now, a year later, Wanda sat cross-legged on the floor of their modest Novi Grad apartment. Several candles hovered around her, suspended by delicate threads of scarlet energy that pulsed in rhythm with her breathing as she honed her control. Her powers had developed considerably over time. With improved control, she had overcome the overwhelming visions that once plagued her dreams after her powers first emerged, though recent premonition-like dreams still unsettled her deeply.
Through diligent practice, she could now manipulate smaller objects with precision, and with enough concentration—though it left her mentally exhausted—even shift heavier items, albeit only slightly. She could also generate shields powerful enough to protect both herself and her brother, and had developed heightened sensitivity to the thoughts and emotions of those nearby. Recently, despite Pietro's objections, she had begun venturing outside under cover of darkness to help him secure their daily necessities.
From the doorway, Pietro watched her practice, his expression revealing both pride in her remarkable progress and lingering concern about what these mysterious abilities might mean for their future.
"Your control is improving," he remarked, his voice carrying the slight accent of their homeland.
Wanda guided the candles back to the table with a graceful motion of her fingers. "It's better, but still not enough," she replied, her frustration evident. "I know there's something more... something deeper… I can feel it but I cannot access it... not yet anyway." She studied her hands thoughtfully as crimson energy continued to weave between her fingers like living thread. Flashes of her earlier dreams—the scarlet figure in the middle of that darkness—passed through her mind. "These abilities... I feel like I'm only beginning to scratch the surface of what's possible."
Pietro moved to sit beside her, his expression serious. "Maybe that's for the best, Wanda. These powers... they came out of nowhere. We don't understand their source or their limits. So don't rush it. I know one day you'll get the hang of it."
She turned to him, her eyes briefly flashing crimson. "Nothing about our lives has been natural, Pietro. The bombs that killed our parents and so many others weren't natural. The suffering in Sokovia isn't natural." She clenched her fist, the scarlet energy responding instantly, coalescing into a pulsing orb above her palm. "I feared these abilities at first, but now I understand—if I have this power, there must be a reason why they chose me. I need to master it completely."
The crimson energy intensified, casting eerie shadows across her determined face. "Only then can we make Stark pay. Make them all pay for what they've done to our country, to our family."
Pietro started to protest but hesitated when he saw the resolve in her expression and the crimson glow in her eyes. Instead, he nodded slowly. "You're right, sister. But don't push yourself too hard." He gestured toward the darkening sky outside their window. "You need rest as well. Look, it's getting late. We should have dinner and get some sleep."
Wanda hesitated, reluctant to break her concentration, but as she followed her brother's gaze to the evening sky, she exhaled slowly. The crimson energy dissipated as she nodded. "You're right, Pietro. Let's go eat something."
"Of course I'm right," Pietro replied with exaggerated smugness. "You know, little sister, you should listen to your big brother more often."
"Ha!" Wanda scoffed, a genuine smile breaking through her serious expression. "You're only older by twelve minutes, and you never let me forget it."
Pietro laughed and ruffled her hair. "You got that right, little sister. Now come on, I found a place near the market that actually has fresh bread with kebabs today."
While the twins headed out for dinner, a HYDRA cell operated from a fortified base near the Sokovian capital. Hidden behind an energy shield developed from stolen alien technology, they monitored unusual energy signatures across the globe while conducting secret experiments. Operating within SHIELD's shadow, this HYDRA cell viewed Sokovia's political instability as the perfect cover for their operations.
When SHIELD had secured Loki's scepter following the Battle of New York, HYDRA operatives embedded within the organization managed to extract it along with other alien artifacts. Under Baron Wolfgang von Strucker's leadership, the Sokovian cell had been using the stolen alien tech to create advanced weapons through reverse engineering and had used the scepter to conduct experiments aimed at creating enhanced soldiers. Despite a disturbing number of fatalities in their human trials, Strucker and his chief scientist, Dr. List, persisted, exploiting local unrest by posing as humanitarian aid from the West to recruit desperate volunteers in secret.
Now, after months of failure, an unexpected opportunity had emerged—Strucker's surveillance team had identified two individuals who had first caught his attention a year earlier before vanishing from their radar.
In his office, Baron Strucker reviewed footage from secret surveillance drones that had captured glimpses of Wanda's abilities. A cold smile spread across his face as he addressed his lieutenant.
"It seems we may not need to start from scratch after all," he observed, freezing the frame on a grainy image of Wanda's face. "After all this time, the girl has reemerged. How fortuitous."
"Shall we bring her in immediately, sir?" his subordinate inquired.
Dr. List stepped forward, adjusting his glasses as he studied the footage. "I strongly recommend we do. Our experiments would likely have a significantly higher success rate with someone who already exhibits enhanced abilities. And given they are twins, there's a strong possibility her brother may also respond well to our procedures, considering her natural predisposition."
Strucker paused, carefully weighing his options. "Not yet," he decided after a moment. "I want more information first. We need to understand what they've been doing since they disappeared from our surveillance. Has the girl's power merely emerged, or has it grown? There are too many variables to consider. If we don't approach them carefully, this could backfire spectacularly—she could draw attention we can't afford right now." He tapped his finger thoughtfully on the image, focusing on Pietro beside his sister. "Besides, perhaps we can find a way to make her—and many more—come to us willingly. All we need is the proper motivation." He glanced at the report on his desk. "Their patriotism and their documented hatred for Stark and the Avengers might prove quite useful to our cause. Make use of this. Get me more recruits this time—let's do it in the open to widen our net and get more volunteers."
The lieutenant straightened. "Understood, Baron. We'll arrange another operation—perhaps a demonstration that will draw them out if they're still politically active. With the right cause, they should make themselves visible."
"Good," Strucker nodded. "Proceed. Hail HYDRA!"
"Hail HYDRA!" chorused everyone present, before dispersing to execute their orders.
Alone in his office, Strucker rose and moved to the window, gazing up at the moon hanging over the Sokovian landscape. "This has to work," he murmured, his reflection grim in the glass.
Later that night, back in their apartment, Wanda tossed restlessly in her sleep before awakening with a start, her face beaded with sweat. Not wanting to disturb Pietro, she quietly rose and walked to the kitchen for a glass of water. She then stood by the window, looking up at the stars scattered across the night sky as she drank from her glass. Something significant was approaching—she could sense it. Recently, her dreams had been dominated by visions of a brilliant yellow stone that pulsed with unfathomable power.
Despite her unease, Wanda felt her power stirring within her—resonating with her emotions, providing a strange comfort and reassuring her that whatever came, she would be able to protect both herself and her brother. As she gazed at the stars, crimson energy danced unconsciously around her fingertips.
The next chilly morning, Pietro returned to their modest apartment with fresh bread and a newspaper tucked under his arm. His face bore the determined expression that Wanda had come to know well.
"There's going to be a demonstration this afternoon," he said, spreading the newspaper on their small kitchen table. "The government is cutting food subsidies again. People say it's because corrupt officials are pocketing international aid money."
Wanda, who had been practicing refining her control, let a pencil she'd been levitating clatter to the table.
"And you want us to go," she said matter-of-factly. She understood her brother all too well.
"I know the safer bet is for us to stay hidden," Pietro said, his voice dropping to a whisper as his expression grew serious. "But these corrupt officials stealing food aid crosses a line. Your control has improved enough for us to venture out safely." He met Wanda's concerned gaze. "We belong there with our people—the same neighbors who supported us after..." His voice softened as both siblings' eyes drifted to the faded photograph of their parents hanging on the wall.
Wanda sighed, rubbing her temples. "I know. These demonstrations are getting more dangerous. Last time, several people were hospitalized. With my abilities, I should also be able to protect our people if things get out of hand again."
"Alright," Pietro said, leaning in. "We'll blend with the crowd, and you can use your abilities if needed. But if things escalate too far, we leave immediately. No arguments."
"Alright." Wanda nodded.
Later that afternoon, the twins navigated through Novi Grad's winding streets toward the city center. Tension hung heavily in the air as people streamed from all corners of the capital, their faces etched with determination and frustration. By the time Wanda and Pietro reached the main square, a substantial crowd had gathered, their signs and banners waving defiantly as passionate chants filled the air.
"There are more people than I expected," Wanda murmured, pulling her scarf higher to conceal her face as she scanned the crowd. Pietro stood protectively close, his eyes constantly surveying their surroundings.
"Winter is approaching," Pietro replied in a low voice, "and these subsidy cuts will leave many families without enough food. People are beyond desperate now."
On a hastily constructed platform at the center of the square, a local activist spoke through a megaphone. Her voice carried across the crowd, strained with emotion as she detailed how international aid intended for Sokovia's struggling citizens was being systematically diverted into private accounts. The crowd responded with unified anger, their collective rage palpable as chants for justice echoed through the square. Wanda and Pietro blended in, joining the chorus of voices demanding accountability while remaining vigilant.
"Stay close," Wanda whispered, her fingers briefly brushing against Pietro's arm as she sensed a subtle shift in the crowd's energy. "Something feels different today."
As the speech concluded, the demonstration began moving as one body through the narrow streets toward the government buildings. The twins kept to the middle of the crowd where they would attract less attention. Ahead, police and even soldiers in riot gear formed an ominous blockade, their mere presence visibly escalating tensions. When the officers began advancing to disperse the protesters, pushing shields against the front lines, chaos seemed inevitable.
Suddenly, an authoritative voice cut through the rising tensions, calling for the officers and soldiers to stand down. All eyes turned toward the government building steps where a man in a lab coat descended. The police hesitated, then gradually pulled back as he approached the crowd.
"Brave citizens of Sokovia," the man called out. "I hear your pain and share your outrage. But ask yourselves this—will protest alone be enough to change your circumstances? There are corrupt elements in your government, yes, but are they entirely to blame for Sokovia's suffering?"
A murmur rippled through the crowd as people exchanged uncertain glances. Wanda and Pietro shared a look of cautious interest. Something about the man's confidence and the way the police and the soldiers had yielded to him suggested he held significant influence. Carefully, they edged closer through the crowd, mindful not to draw too much attention to themselves.
"The Western powers," the man continued, his voice growing louder, "they play at politics while showing little genuine concern for your plight. They provide the minimum aid required for favorable optics, with little oversight or accountability for its distribution. Your national defense remains woefully inadequate, leaving you vulnerable. And while you look to your government to protect your rights, can you truly say those rights are safe in the hands of the greedy and corrupt?"
Pietro stepped forward despite Wanda's cautioning hand on his arm. "What exactly are you suggesting then?" he called out, his voice clear and challenging. Wanda moved with him, keeping her face partially concealed.
The man's gaze found Pietro in the crowd, and a satisfied smile crossed his face. "The answer lies with you—the people," he replied, gesturing broadly to encompass the gathered protesters. "You shouldn't rely on governments to protect your rights when you could hold that power yourselves."
His words sent a wave of uneasy murmurs through the crowd. Behind him, soldiers shifted nervously at the provocative statement but remained in formation, their posture indicating they recognized his authority and were prepared to defend him.
"We don't want abstract promises or weapons!" Pietro shouted back, his frustration evident. "We want peace in our streets and food for our people!" Around him, others took up the cry, voices joining his in a chorus of agreement.
"Please, I ask for your patience," the man said, raising his hands in a calming gesture. When the crowd quieted, he continued. "In your country's current condition, it takes power to achieve these things—real power. The kind you've witnessed in Iron Man and the Avengers. What if I told you I could offer you that same power?"
A skeptical voice called out from the crowd, "Why should we trust you? You're clearly not Sokovian—just another Westerner making empty promises!"
"That's right!" another voice joined in. "How are you any different from the others who have failed us?"
"What makes your promises worth believing?" demanded a third.
Despite the mounting hostility, the man remained composed. "I understand your skepticism," he acknowledged with a respectful nod. "I don't ask for blind faith—only an opportunity to prove myself. If you truly want access to a better future, all I require is your consent. Then I will demonstrate that my words are not merely promises, but the beginning of a transformation for Sokovia."
The crowd fell into an uneasy silence, weighing the stranger's words. Wanda felt Pietro tense beside her. She placed a restraining hand on his arm, sensing his impulse to confront the man directly.
"Who are you?" a voice finally called out from the crowd, asking the question on everyone's mind.
The man in the lab coat smiled. "My name is Dr. List. I represent an organization dedicated to empowering those who have been forgotten by the so-called heroes of the world."
Murmurs rippled through the crowd. Wanda narrowed her eyes, focusing on the man, trying to sense his emotions. But whether she was still too far away or his mental fortitude was strong, she wasn't able to probe him. As such, she remained cautious.
"Can you tell us some more?" another protester shouted.
Dr. List spread his hands in a gesture of openness. "While I can't get into specifics since this is confidential but, I can say this. We have developed methods to enhance human potential—to unlock abilities that would allow you to defend yourselves, to ensure your children never go hungry again."
Pietro leaned close to Wanda's ear and whispered. "He's talking about human experimentation."
Wanda nodded slightly, her gaze never leaving Dr. List. "But why here? Why now?" she muttered.
"We're looking for volunteers," Dr. List continued, his voice carrying across the now-hushed square. "Brave patriots willing to undergo a transformation for the good of Sokovia. Those who succeed will become the vanguard of a new era for your country."
An older man pushed forward through the crowd. "And what about those who don't succeed? Several of our people have disappeared recently. Were they part of your experiments?" he challenged, his weathered face lined with suspicion.
Dr. List's smile faltered only momentarily. "Science always involves risks. But I assure you, our methods have been refined recently, and we take excellent care of our volunteers. Trust me, the potential benefits far outweigh any dangers. For those interested, we have set up a temporary facility on the outskirts of the city. There, we can explain the process in greater detail and begin preliminary assessments. And as a show of good faith, we will be providing rations to the families of those who participate."
"This is madness," a woman near Wanda muttered. "They're preying on our desperation."
Yet Wanda could see others in the crowd considering the offer. Hunger and hopelessness made people vulnerable to promises of power, no matter how dubious.
Pietro's grip on Wanda's hand tightened. "We should go there," he whispered. "We can find out what they're really doing."
"It's too dangerous," Wanda replied, suppressing her growing curiosity.
"Wanda, think about it," Pietro insisted. "If this is legitimate, it could be what we've been waiting for. A way to make a difference. And if it's not..." His eyes hardened. "Then someone needs to expose them before they harm our people and help others escape their grasp."
As the crowd began to disperse, some people moving toward the soldiers who were now distributing information leaflets, Wanda felt torn. The rational part of her mind screamed warning, but another part—the part that still burned with the need for justice—wondered if this might be their chance.
"We'll go," she finally decided. "But we'll leave immediately if it turns out to be too good to be true."
"Sounds good. Let's go." Pietro nodded.
As they turned to leave, Wanda cast one last glance at Dr. List. For a brief moment, their eyes met across the crowd. Though he maintained a warm smile, she felt no genuine warmth from it—only a slight chill. This made her especially wary as she and her brother picked up the flyer and joined those headed toward the facility.
At HYDRA's Facility
Strucker stood at the observation window, hands clasped behind his back, watching as people filtered into the compound.
"Status report," he commanded without turning around.
The subordinate approached with a tablet in hand. "Sir, recruitment has exceeded our expectations. Dr. List's last minute offer of rations proved highly effective with the Sokovian populace. And the primary targets—the Maximoff twins—have also arrived as anticipated. Your prediction was correct. The right motivation brought them directly to us."
A thin smile crossed Strucker's face. "Of course it was. Desperation and patriotism are powerful motivators." He walked back to his desk and tapped through surveillance images on the nearby monitor, stopping on a clear shot of the people coming in and then on to Pietro and Wanda in the intake area. "However, we must be prudent with our resources. Distribute only the minimum rations necessary to fulfill our promise. We cannot afford to deplete our reserves."
He zoomed in on Wanda's face, studying her expression. "And inform Dr. List to prioritize the twins. Show them a glimpse of our technology and the scepter—let them witness a demonstration of its capabilities. This will solidify their trust before we separate them and begin testing."
The subordinate nodded. "Yes, Herr Strucker." He offered a salute before departing.
Dr. List's Laboratory - Testing Area
Dr. List moved between workstations, supervising as his team processed the volunteers. His attention, however, continually drifted to the twins waiting behind the observation glass.
"Your patience is appreciated," he said, approaching them with a practiced smile. "I didn't anticipate such enthusiasm from your countrymen. Your evaluation will begin shortly." He glanced between them, barely concealing his scientific curiosity. "Twins present a unique opportunity for our research. The way the scepter reacts to your identical genetic foundation should provide valuable insights. I'm interested to see what abilities it might unlock in each of you."
When he departed, Wanda turned to her brother, anxiety evident in her expression.
"Pietro... are you certain about this?" she whispered, clutching his arm. "Something about this place feels..."
Pietro squeezed her hand reassuringly. "Stay strong, sister. Your visions have guided us this far—trust them now. That artifact from your dreams is here, you sensed it on that staff, didn't you?" His eyes burned with conviction. "This is no coincidence. This is where we are meant to be. The experiments could amplify what you already possess and possibly awaken something similar in me." He lowered his voice, leaning closer. "Think of it, sister—with such abilities, we could truly protect our people. We could finally fight back against those who've made Sokovia suffer."
Earlier, as they were escorted through the facility, Wanda had frozen mid-step when passing the secured laboratory. Through the reinforced glass door, she'd glimpsed Loki's scepter. Her heart raced as her power flared, momentarily revealing the brilliant yellow stone embedded within the weapon—the very object that had been appearing in her dreams recently.
When Pietro shook her from her trance, asking what was wrong, she described how she felt the stone calling to her, the same presence from her visions. This only strengthened Pietro's resolve and convinced him further that this opportunity to gain powers was real.
Wanda looked at him with a troubled expression. "And what if my visions are wrong this time? Or what if their agenda is worse than anything Stark has done? What then?"
Pietro's face hardened with resolve. "If things go wrong, we escape. We fight if we must. Your abilities are already powerful enough to secure weapons and free others." He clasped her hand tightly. "But I don't believe it will come to that. I've come to trust your powers, Wanda—even though a part of me is still wary of their origins, I can't deny that they've kept us alive this far. This opportunity... it feels like fate. After years of helplessness, we finally have a chance to become something more—to actually change things in this broken world."
"Alright," she finally conceded.
A technician appeared at the door. "We're ready for your preliminary assessments. Please follow me."
The twins exchanged one final look before following the technician into the lab filled with various medical equipment and monitoring stations. In the center of the room, protected by a transparent barrier, stood Loki's scepter on a specialized pedestal. The moment they entered, Wanda felt it again—that strange pull, as if the glowing stone within the scepter was reaching out specifically to her.
"Ah, our most promising candidates," Dr. List said, entering from another door. "Before we proceed with the standard evaluation, I'd like to demonstrate something that might interest you both." He nodded to a technician who activated a control panel.
The protective shield around the scepter retracted partially. As it did, the stone within pulsed with energy, casting an eerie light throughout the room.
"This artifact," Dr. List explained, "contains energy unlike anything humanity has ever encountered. Our experiments have proven it can unlock extraordinary potential in those with the right... genetic predisposition."
Wanda couldn't look away from the stone. Its light seemed to intensify when she focused on it, as if responding to her attention. Without realizing it, she had stepped closer to the barrier.
"Wanda?" Pietro whispered, concerned by her trance-like state.
"I can feel it," she murmured. "It's like it's... alive."
Dr. List raised his hand to stop his subordinates and the guards from intervening when she stepped toward the scepter, watching her reaction with keen interest. "Fascinating. You're sensitive to its energy even at this distance." He made a note on his tablet. "This confirms our preliminary assessments. You two are indeed special candidates."
Pietro stepped forward protectively. "What exactly will your experiments involve?"
"Nothing invasive to start," Dr. List assured them. "We'll first expose you to controlled emissions from the scepter, monitoring your neurological and physiological responses. The process is gradual—we've learned from our... earlier attempts that rushing produces unstable results."
The hesitation in his voice made Wanda snap out of her trance. "Earlier attempts? What happened to those volunteers?"
Dr. List's smile tightened. "Science requires sacrifice. Not everyone's genetic makeup is compatible with the stone's energy. But your preliminary tests show remarkably promising compatibility."
"And if we decide to walk away?" Pietro asked, his expression turned serious.
"Of course, participation remains voluntary," Dr. List replied with practiced smile. Wanda tried to read his intentions but found nothing—her powers had been behaving erratically since entering the room, requiring intense concentration just to keep them contained. The strange energy emanating from the scepter seemed to interfere with her abilities, blocking her from sensing emotions or intentions as she normally could. "But consider carefully what you'd be rejecting," List continued, his eyes flickering briefly toward the scepter. "The power to truly transform Sokovia's future lies before you."
Pietro hesitated for a moment, contemplating List's words. After exchanging a quick glance with Wanda, who nodded, he agreed to continue. She couldn't deny the powerful pull she felt from the object inside the scepter anymore.
"Good. Now, let's proceed with the initial exposure test," Dr. List continued. "Nothing to be concerned about—just a brief, controlled emission to gauge your response. Now please follow my colleague here into the test chamber, one by one."
Wanda and Pietro nodded in understanding. As one technician escorted Wanda away, another carefully moved the encased scepter into the testing chamber. Pietro clenched his fist, his face revealing both worry for his sister and confidence in her resilience and strength as he patiently waited for her return.
In the observation room adjacent to the lab, Dr. List and his team monitored an array of equipment. His voice resonated through the chamber's speakers as Wanda stood before the encased scepter.
"Now, Miss Maximoff, please relax and try to remain calm," he instructed as technicians attached monitoring sensors to her temples and wrists.
Once the sterile chamber was sealed and secured, the examination commenced. Scientists initiated their equipment, directing power through specialized conduits into the scepter's containment unit.
"The exposure will last exactly sixty seconds," Dr. List explained. "You may experience unusual sensations—this is normal. If the discomfort becomes too great, simply raise your hand and we'll terminate the test. Beginning exposure in three... two... one."
When the energy levels reached the threshold needed to activate the scepter, it responded immediately—pulsing with an otherworldly glow that filled the room.
Wanda faced the scepter, her expression a complex mixture of nervousness and undeniable anticipation. As the scepter activated, her own power instinctively flared in response, crimson energy briefly dancing between her fingertips before she suppressed it. Something about this object felt fundamentally connected to her power.
As she gazed into the pulsing light, the glow shifted, revealing a brilliant yellow core that seemed to reach out to her consciousness and release a massive amount of energy. In this moment, she couldn't help but wonder: could this stone be the source of her abilities? The questions that had haunted her since her powers emerged resurfaced—what was the true purpose behind her inexplicable gifts? Why had these powers chosen her, a refugee from a forgotten corner of Sokovia?
But in the next moment, as the energy from the scepter touched her and interacted with her power, the world around her seemed to fall away. She no longer saw the lab or heard the scientists—only infinite patterns of yellow light, expanding and contracting like a living entity.
Within this light, she sensed something ancient and vast—a consciousness that seemed both ancient and yet familiar something that seemed to exist beyond her reach yet as if she could touch it if she reached out. Soon a figure emerged, from a faint silhouette it took shape that of a woman surrounded by crimson energy all around her, despite it becoming hard on her eyes to continue looking, she couldn't help but look and reach out to this strangely familiar person as though she understood that the being too would reach out. As both she and the figure reached out with outstretched hands as their fingers touched and made contact, it didn't communicate in words but she felt in pure concepts that flooded her mind, potential, chaos, order, creation, destruction, infinity.
And then, just as she grappled with the strain of such concepts filling her mind, Wanda felt as though her head would explode. With tremendous effort, she managed to look up and finally catch a glimpse of the figure's face. Her eyes widened in shock.
"It's... me?" she whispered, recognizing her own features—but older and more powerful, wearing a strange crown-like headpiece with eyes blazing crimson.
Before she could process this revelation, the strain became unbearable. In the next moment, Wanda collapsed unconscious, her mind and body silently undergoing a profound transformation.
In this unconscious state, she found herself transported back to the realm of darkness she had first glimpsed when her powers initially emerged. But something had changed. The swirling ball of crimson energy at its center had grown exponentially, pulsing rhythmically as if alive—as if it were about to...
"Explode," she whispered.
In the next instant, a massive explosion erupted as crimson energy blasted in all directions, completely illuminating the dark realm. Despite her fear, Wanda couldn't look away. The spectacle was both terrifying and beautiful. The wave of energy passed through her, not harming her but filling her with an indescribable sensation—as if every cell in her body was awakening.
At the center, the energy began swirling and colliding, coalescing before her eyes into a spherical shape—like a planet being born.
"Incredible..." she whispered witnessing this sight.
Without warning, she suddenly felt herself pulled toward this newly formed planet. She instinctively raised her arms to protect herself, expecting a painful impact. Yet when she crashed onto the surface, she felt little more than the sensation of falling onto her face.
As she got up and before she could take another step, the ground before her trembled and cracked, startling her. In the next moment, a massive tree burst forth, growing in seconds. Its trunk thickened and branches reached skyward, sprouting luminous crimson leaves that pulsed with the same energy that had created this world.
Wanda's heart raced as she struggled to comprehend these impossible, rapid changes. Yet rather than surrender to panic, she drew on the resilience that had sustained her through bombings, homelessness, and persecution. She closed her eyes and took several deep, measured breaths until her racing thoughts began to slow and calm down.
When she felt centered enough, she recalled the concepts the figure had conveyed to her.
"Potential... chaos... order... creation... destruction... infinity," she recited aloud, each word resonating through this strange realm. Understanding began to dawn on her. "This isn't a vision—this realm of darkness... it's within me. The explosion was like a cosmic big bang... and now this world forming..."
She looked around at the crimson landscape with new clarity. "This is a manifestation of my power, isn't it? My potential taking form." Her voice grew stronger with each realization. "The chaos and destruction giving way to creation and order."
Wanda reached out and touched the trunk of the massive tree. It pulsed in response, sending a wave of energy up her arm that didn't hurt but rather felt like recognition—like coming home.
"My god," she whispered, a mixture of awe and fear in her voice. "Just what am I becoming?"
While Wanda grappled with what was happening to her, outside, in the observation room Dr. List and his team worked frantically to regain control of the situation. Monitors flashed warnings as power surged through their systems. They had cut the power and were now attempting to open the secure door to reach Wanda.
"What happened in there?" asked one of the junior scientists, eyes wide with alarm. "The readings were off the charts."
Dr. List studied the data scrolling across his screen. "The scepter's energy signature spiked dramatically when it interacted with the subject. Nothing like we've seen in previous trials."
While Wanda had been experiencing profound visions, the scientists saw only a chamber filled with brilliant blue light followed by an anomalous energy surge before Wanda simply collapsed, alarming them.
When they finally managed to override the security protocols and enter the chamber, technicians rushed to Wanda's side, medical equipment in hand. The lead technician pressed fingers to her neck, then looked up with surprise.
"She's alive," he announced, disbelief evident in his voice. "Pulse and breathing are slightly elevated but nothing concerning."
A wave of relief washed over the room, quickly replaced by scientific excitement. After dozens of failed experiments and lost subjects, they finally had a success.
"Remarkable," Dr. List murmured, kneeling beside Wanda's unconscious form. He examined the monitoring devices still attached to her temples, which continued to record unprecedented neural activity. "Get her to containment immediately. I want a full workup as soon as she stabilizes."
As technicians carefully transferred Wanda to a stretcher, Dr. List turned to his second-in-command. "Run a complete diagnostic on the equipment. I want to understand exactly what happened during that anomaly. Then, prepare for the next subject."
"Sir," the scientist hesitated, glancing nervously at Wanda's unconscious form. "We still don't know what caused the spike. If it happens again with the next subject—"
Dr. List cut him off with a dismissive wave. "That's precisely why we'll run diagnostics first. Besides, the anomaly may have been triggered by something unique to her abilities. Her brother hasn't displayed any signs of power yet, so the risk should be minimal."
He looked around at his team, noting their concerned expressions. His voice hardened as he continued, "Remember what we're working toward. These are test subjects, not patients. We stand at the threshold of changing human potential forever." His tone grew colder. "Unless you'd prefer to explain your hesitation to continue our work to Baron Strucker personally?"
The threat had its intended effect. The team quickly dispersed to their tasks, their momentary concern buried beneath fear of their superiors and the scientific drive to continue their work.
While Wanda was secured in her containment unit, Pietro was escorted into the testing chamber. His eyes darted around, searching for his sister.
"Where is my sister?" he demanded, fixing Dr. List with an intense stare.
Dr. List smiled reassuringly. "Your sister is fine, Mr. Maximoff. The procedure was a success, but naturally, it was taxing. She's resting comfortably and will be monitored closely."
"I want to see her," Pietro insisted, his jaw clenched.
"And you will," Dr. List promised. "As soon as you both complete the necessary protocols. Your sister has already taken the first step toward the power you both seek." He leaned in slightly. "Don't you want to join her? To stand together as equals in strength?"
Pietro's fists unclenched slowly as he processed this. Despite his distrust, he had committed to this path. "Fine," he said finally. "What do I need to do?"
Dr. List personally guided Pietro into the chamber, where a technician attached monitoring sensors to his temples and wrists. "The procedure is straightforward," he explained. "Clear your mind of extraneous thoughts and focus on what matters most to you—your sister, your homeland, your desire for justice."
Pietro nodded briefly. "Let's get on with it."
The scientist patted his shoulder, then exited with the technician. As they sealed the chamber, Dr. List gave the order to begin the power sequence. Unlike Wanda's test, this one proceeded according to their expectations. When Pietro eventually slumped unconscious inside, there was a moment of tension until they confirmed his vital signs remained strong.
"Another success," Dr. List announced, unable to hide his satisfaction. "Baron Strucker will be pleased."
The twins were placed in separate containment units to recover. Dr. List personally delivered the news to Strucker, who received it with a measured smile. Their long work was finally bearing fruit.
The next morning, both siblings awoke in their new environments—sparse rooms with only essential furnishings, surrounded by observation panels and monitoring equipment. Disoriented and concerned for each other, their emotional states triggered dramatic manifestations of their newly awakened powers.
Pietro experienced the world suddenly slowing to a crawl around him. His own movements felt normal, but everything else appeared frozen in time. Panicking, he tried to run—and found himself slamming painfully into the wall of his room before he could even register movement. Again and again he collided with the walls as he struggled to control his newfound speed.
Meanwhile, Wanda's distress manifested as waves of crimson energy that pulsed from her body. The furniture in her room disintegrated on contact with this energy, and even the reinforced observation glass began to crack, the fractures spreading like a web across its surface.
Just then Dr. List's calm and controlled voice came through speakers in both rooms, "Please remain calm. You are both perfectly safe."
"You call this safe?" Wanda shouted, her accent thickening with anger as another pulse of energy left scorch marks on the walls. "You've imprisoned us!"
In his own room, Pietro demanded, "Where is my sister? What have you done to her?"
Dr. List addressed them both through their separate communication systems. "These aren't cells—they're contained environments designed for your protection while you learn to control your new abilities. You've both undergone a profound transformation."
He continued, "Mr. Maximoff, our initial observations indicate you've developed extraordinary speed. Miss Maximoff, your abilities appear to be more complex—manipulation of energy in ways we've never seen before."
"Think carefully," he urged them. "In your current state, you're dangerous—to yourselves and to each other. Mr. Maximoff, you've already injured yourself repeatedly in just these few moments. Miss Maximoff, the energy you're generating could easily harm anyone near you, including your brother."
His voice softened slightly, becoming persuasive. "Please trust us, trust me. Look, we delivered what we promised—you both have powers now. Real, extraordinary abilities. So, please trust us once more and believe that this next phase is equally important. We need to run additional tests and observe you both to understand your gifts, their limits, and help you learn control. Only then will you truly be ready to fight for the change you seek, for your country and our world."
Though unable to see or hear each other, the siblings found comfort in knowing they had both survived and now possessed powers. Once they calmed down, they realized that Dr. List's words, despite their reluctance to admit it, had merit. His reasoning was logical—they truly had no idea how to control these new abilities and would need help.
"We'll bring meals shortly," Dr. List concluded, his professional demeanor returning. "In the meantime, Miss Maximoff, please allow our technicians to repair your room and the observation panel. For now, both of you should focus on rest, recovery, and preparation. Your real work begins today."
As the communication ended, the twins, separated by walls yet united in spirit, silently resolved to master these new powers—not just for this organization they had joined, but for their own goals.