S.H.I.E.L.D., Special Care Ward.
"So, after only a few days apart, things had already become this much of a mess?"
"Black Widow" Natasha Romanoff swiftly fastened the last buckle on her black combat suit, the metal clasp producing a crisp clink.
Then, she skillfully slid a pistol and spare magazines into the tactical holster on the outside of her thigh, her movements smooth and practiced.
"You know, I'd originally thought I could at least get a month off. Fury promised me that." Natasha spoke helplessly as she checked her equipment.
"Fury can barely save himself right now. We have to rely on ourselves." Hawkeye Clint Barton leaned against the doorway and spoke to Natasha.
He then turned to "Shadowcat" Kitty Pryde, who was stretching her limbs nearby. "How are you now, Miss Kitty? Are you fit to move?"
"I'm still a little weak, but it's nothing serious." Kitty tested her body by stretching, passing through the wall and then coming back through it. Only after confirming her ability was working properly did she ask Hawkeye, "What are we doing now, Agent Barton?"
"Just call me Clint." Clint moved straight to the point at a rapid pace. "Kitty, take Natasha to the hangar. There's a Quinjet I prepared for you."
"Fly it to New Jersey. Dr. Jane Foster appeared there not long ago. She might have clues about Thor, and we need the God of Thunder's strength right now. Oh, and take these with you."
As he spoke, Clint handed Natasha and Kitty two headbands.
"What about you?" Natasha loaded her final bullet, rose to her feet, and looked Clint straight in the eye. "Aren't you coming with us?"
"I have my own mission." Clint's gaze was sharp. "What comes next is something I have to handle alone. We'll split up."