open post/overflow;; i really think i'm invaluable.

[helmut]

Comments

[jamesbbarnes]

That's it then. You want the Winter Soldier at your beck and call. In case you haven't noticed I'm not him anymore. The words don't work.

You enjoyed having the power over me. Of making me do whatever bidding popped in your head.

Like I said that's over now.

[helmut]

[ ah. the fear leaps out, like an animal backed into a corner. zemo is no stranger to what that kind of fear can do. ]

Apologies. I have not made myself clear.

I'm under no delusion that you're still the assassin you were created to be, and much less that I have some kind of control over you. Your appearance in Madripoor under the guise of the Winter Soldier is enough to keep me safe. For now.

You're the one with the control now, James. I am your prisoner, here to provide you access to people who will know more about the serum's whereabouts. Or have you forgotten?

[jamesbbarnes]

I could never forget about the serum but is that really your only objective? It seems unlike you and I don't need any other surprises.

You are just going to return to prison after this? I find that hard to believe too.

You have to have other plans.

[ it took a bit for the last message to come in but eventually he sent off - ]

You don't wish things could be different?

[helmut]

[ it's nearly palpable, the way james' attitude changes over the course of this last series of texts. finally, something that feels a little closer to the truth. ]

Different how? Do I wish this holiday I get to enjoy with you was something more permanent? Do I wish that I were not a wanted man, pursued by forces who want me back in prison or dead? Or do I wish my country were not wiped off the face of Europe?

There is plenty to regret. But I try to spend as little time as possible thinking of things I cannot have.

[jamesbbarnes]

[ it took awhile for him to send anything back, lost in thoughts and down pathways he never wanted to explore. he never really stopped to think about zemo's loss because then it made him more human and less of a dark shadow tied to his past. it made him consider and he knew how dangerous it could be. ]

Am I an important part of the equation? Or you just like the protection I offer?

What

What if you could have some of it?

Can't do anything about the country part but the other parts. If it was possible, could I trust you to not kill anyone else?

[helmut]

[ it's a curious notion to see the cracks in james' veneer, the well hidden vulnerabilities he keeps guarded with an impassive face and the driest of sarcasm.

even more curious to see james actually offer something beyond suspicion.

zemo's fingers tap on the edge of his phone thoughtfully before replying. ]

I would not be here if not for you. You're integral to the equation, beyond the muscle and fearsome title you can wield.

Is this a proposal?

[jamesbbarnes]

[ frustration AND annoyance flickered over him in nearly equal measures and he wanted to, well, he didn't want to finish the thought. ]

Answer the question first.

I don't know what the fuck I'm proposing, but something.

Maybe.

[helmut]

You can trust me to follow you. You can trust me not to kill unless it were dire, unless your life was threatened. Or mine.

I have plenty of regrets. But no regrets about the time you and I spent together. Whatever you're proposing, I want a part in it.

[jamesbbarnes]

How poetic with a hint of looming death on the horizon.

Again, the time we spent together in the past was with my brains scrambled. I still doubt you're going to like this version but fine.

I have a plan but you have to listen to me.

[helmut]

I don't count the time I spent hunting and using you as pleasurable. However, international chartered flights accompanied by decent champagne and good company I do find exceedingly enjoyable.

I'm all ears, James.

[jamesbbarnes]

The champagne wasn't that bad. Never really had a taste for it.

It involves faking your death.

Still interested?

[helmut]

I did say it was decent. I make do with what I have.

Colour me curious and interested. You have my attention. Go on.

[jamesbbarnes]

They have to capture someone but if you're already dead it won't really matter or be that urgent anymore.

Just have to stage your death and let them find you.