Come As You Are | |
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Season 6, Episode 26 | |
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Airdate | 12/30/2017 |
Written by | Bridgetterocks |
Directed by | Bridgetterocks |
Episode Guide | |
Previous Best Defense is a Good Offense |
Next Phoenix Five |
"Come As You Are" is the twenty-sixth episode of Assemble!'s Season Six and the one hundred and fifty-seventh episode overall.
Plot[]
Genghis Connie’s.
Suddenly, an elderly man carrying a cane walked inside the restaurant.
-You four… The Devil of Hell’s Kitchen. The smart-ass detective. The righteous ex-con. And the kid with a glowing fist… The war for New York is here… So get your sh*t together.-
-The Hand.- Stick pulled a chair and sat down. -They manipulated the Steel Serpent into teaming up with your enemies to keep you distracted, while they finished their Midland Circle.-
-Yes, Ms. Walker. You catch on quick.- The ninja nodded. -None of the others were aware that they were just Gao’s pawns.-
-Can we please avoid the dumb questions? Yes, the K’un-Lunan.-
-It’s not the building, but what’s underneath. There’s a large hole under the Midland Circle.-
-Not stash. Set free. The Hand’s goal is to spread the Beast’s dark influence…-
-No. A demon.-
-It’s no laughing matter, Ms. Jones.- Stick shook his head. -They have been overseeing that single spot for decades, using Fisk and Rand Enterprises to their advantage.-
-What did I say about questions?- Stick retorted.
-Madame Gao brought Harold Meachum back to life and in exchange, she forced him to follow her orders from behind the scenes… Using his son.-
-Yes.-
-We call ourselves the Chaste.- Stick explained. -Sworn enemies of the Hand.- The old man looked at Matt. -I trained him to fight a war. He decided to put on a costume.-
Suddenly, a group of ninjas broke into the restaurant, led by Nobu Yoshioka.
-Devil of Hell’s Kitchen, we meet again.- The Hand's member smirked, pulling his kyoketsu-shoge out and swinging it around.
-But there is no such thing as death.- Nobu tried to hit Daredevil with his weapon, but Luke stepped in front of it and blocked it with his unbreakable skin. -How?- The ninja asked, retrieving the blade again.
Stick pulled a katana out and started slicing his way through Hand’s members, while the rest of the Defenders joined the fight.
Iron Fist channeled his chi through his fist and smashed through the ninjas’ katanas. Jessica grabbed a Hand member from his tunic’s collar and pushed him against a wall, as Connie Lin and her husband, Jin Lin ran out of the building. However, they were intercepted by Madame Gao and her men, who surrounded the couple.
-Harlem’s Protector.- Gao smiled. -I have heard about you.-
-You are in no position to give orders, Mister Cage.- She smiled, pulling out the sword hidden in her walking cane and pointing it at Connie’s back. Luke ran towards Gao, but she held her hand out at him and pushed him away using her telekinesis.
-You shouldn’t have done that.- Gao smiled, as she stabbed Jin’s back and through his chest.
Then, the woman held her sword out and was ready to kill Connie when Jessica jumped at her, punching the woman hard.
However, Gao only took a couple steps backwards and retaliated.
However, her teammates were busy fighting the ninjas and the restaurant owner was still in a dangerous position. Suddenly, Elektra ran towards the woman and picked her up, not slowing down with the weight.
The former Hand member walked inside the restaurant, where Stick greeted her.
-Well, if it isn’t my old protege… I’m glad you decided to join us, Ellie.-
-Our Black Sky.- Nobu turned to the woman.
-Don’t call me that.- Natchios replied bitterly.
-Did I strike a nerve?- He smirked, swinging his kyoketsu-shoge in circles.
-No. That’s what I’ll do to you… Literally.- She tilted her head slightly, pulling out her twin sai.
Nobu tried to hit Elektra with her weapon, but it got tangled around one of her sai. She pulled it towards her, bringing Nobu with it and stabbed the Hand member’s chest. As his lifeless body fell to the ground, Stick cut his head off with his katana.
Gao noticed this and looked at her men, ordering them to retaliate. Elektra started running after the Hand’s vans, trying to stop them. She leaped, landed on the rooftop and started opening a hole with her sai. The evil K’un-Lunan watched this from inside the vehicle, and as soon as Natchios opened a perfect circle, she used her telekinesis to push her away and onto the busy New York streets. Reacting quickly, the ninja performed a backflip, getting herself to safety.
Knightwing Restorations Ltd.’s Office. The next morning.
-Is Colleen here?- He asked.
-I finally did it. The Compound is open.-
-That’s why I’m here.- The man smiled, looking at a black car parked outside.
-This is like Xavier’s School!- The woman commented, looking at it all in awe.
He chuckled. -I knew you’d like it.- He commented. -Many students from your Dojo are living here.- He pointed at Darryl. -We get them off the streets, teach them discipline… They usually go back to school and become someone.-
-That's wonderful, Bakuto.- She smiled widely. -This has always been your dream… I’m so glad you could make it happen.-
-Thank you.- He smiled back. -I was wondering if you'd like to teach here, too. You were always my favorite student.-
She laughed slightly and nodded. -Yes, I would love to.- She agreed, as they walked past a brick column with a red Hand painted on it.
-Detective Knight…- She said, looking visibly shaken.
-Haven’t I met you before?-
-I’m Candace Miller… We met in the Harlem’s Paradise while I was waiting tables.-
-Oh, yes, I remember you.- She nodded.
-Can I come in? I think my brother’s in trouble.-
As they sat down, Candace explained the situation to the detective.
-He used to… Work for Cottonmouth… Well, so did I. But his was a different kind of work…-
-I gotchu.- She nodded.
-Okay, good… So… When… He died… I thought he would be away from that world. However, when I was doing some laundry the other day I found three new pairs of sneakers… Expensive sneakers.-
-You think he’s in some shady business?-
-I hope not…-
-Okay, Candace.- Misty nodded, placing her hands on the young woman’s. -I’ll take care of it.-
In a secret hideout, the Defenders, Stick and Elektra discussed how they should move forward.
-They don’t usually die.- Elektra shook his head.
-They can be killed.- Stick corrected her. -If you cut their head off.-
-It’s not all flowers and sunshine, Matty. You never understood that we’re at war. People need to die.-
-I don’t care about casualties. All I care about is destroying the Hand. You think the five of you can save New York? You can’t even save yourselves.- He muttered.
-You’ll always be too weak. You still haven’t stopped whining and crying because of one little accident.-
-Don’t be mad, Matty. Without me, you’d be just another one of the sheep. You’d miss the skills I taught you… You’re still mad at me for leaving, aren’t you? I did what I had to do, Matty.-
-I’m glad to see you finally stopped caring.-
-Good job, Stick.- Elektra commented ironically.
-I’ll deal with his hurt feelings when we’ve finished off the Hand once and for all.- He shrugged. -I’m done talking. We got work to do.-
She walked to Murdock, who was punching the walls.
-Hey, Matthew.- She said, putting her hands on his shoulders.
-You can’t always be saving the world, Matthew. You need to take a break. I can remind you how to relieve your stress.- She started massaging his shoulders slowly. -The battle has begun, Matthew. There’s nothing we can do but fight.-
-I think I know someone.- Elektra smiled.
The Defenders walked towards the side of a restaurant followed by Stick, where a waiter was about to throw a trash bag inside a container.
-Jacques Duchamps?- Elektra spoke up.
When the man turned around, he dropped the bag to the ground, as it broke.
-What are you doing here?- He asked, taking a couple steps backwards.
-Don’t worry, I’m not here to stab you again.- She chuckled.
-The baddest.- Natchios smirked, before stepping closer to Duchamps. -I’m here to request your help against the Hand.-
-I was a loyal member of the Chaste, but after our encounter I’m not in the business anymore.-
-You ditched being a martial artist to wait tables?- The woman laughed.
-Well, you gave me no other choice.- He pulled up his pants, revealing his prosthetic limbs. -After you stabbed my back, I became paraplegic.-
-I’ll take it from here.- Stick approached the man. -Do you know anyone who would be willing to help?-
-Well…- Duchamps started. -I have a friend who would be more than willing to save New York… And I could put in a good word for you.- He looked at Stick.
-Detective Knight, what a pleasant surprise.- Turk Barrett smiled.
-I don’t have time for this, Turk.- She replied, looking straight into his eyes. -I want intel.-
-It depends on what you are looking for.-
-What have Mariah Dillard and Shades been up to?- She inquired.
-Nothing, as far as I know. I’ve had little contact with Harlem’s Paradise since Diamondback went missing.-
-Who is recruiting kids into criminal activities, then?- She asked.
-Look, I’d love to help, but I don’t know sh*t.-
-I think you do.- She pushed his body harder into the metal.
-Okay!- He gave up. -I heard about it! But ain’t nobody come asking me, okay? I’m too old-school for this anyway.-
-Who is doing it?-
-They call him the White Hat… I don’t know his name, but I promise you’ll recognize him because of his clothes.-
Knight let go of the criminal. -I'll come back if I find out that you lied to me… I would not do that if I were you.-
Barrett nodded and ran away. Misty put her hand on her bionic wrist and rotated her hand slightly.
The Hand members regrouped at Midland Circle, assessing their losses. Madame Gao, Bakuto, the White Hat and Murakami looked at each other.
-Nobu’s dead.- The woman informed the others.
-それは本当に残念だ- Murakami looked down slightly, as Sowande took his head off.
-It is a shame indeed.- Bakuto nodded. -What shall we do?- He looked at the rest. -Find a replacement?-
-Who could ever replace one of the Five Fingers of the Hand?- Sowande, the White Hat, chuckled.
-I might know someone.- The other suggested.
-Who?- Gao inquired.
-I trained her… She’s become very proficient.-
-彼女は喜んで参加するだろうか?- Murakami asked.
-She will take part in anything that I suggest.- Bakuto shrugged it off. -I already took her to the Compound, and enlisted some of her students.-
Suddenly, Wilson Fisk walked inside the building.
-Who authorized the completion of this building?- Kingpin asked.
The four remaining Fingers of the Hand turned around at the forceful leader of the Hand. He had taken over each of the five factions and acted as a link between them.
-Nobu did.- Sowande replied bitterly.
-そして、彼は行ってしまった- Murakami added.
-Gone? How gone?- Fisk asked.
-The Black Sky did it.- Gao nodded.
-I knew that was a bad idea.- Wilson shook his head, walking around the Fingers. -Well, he organized bringing Elektra back to life, so he had it coming.-
-Fisk.- Gao replied sternly.
-Gao.- He stared into her eyes, but she didn’t look down.
Eventually, Kingpin nodded. -Next time you’re going to authorize anything, you will ask for my permission.- He ordered, as he walked out of the room.
-しかし、あなたはここにいません- Murakami whispered as the doors shut behind Fisk.
The Defenders, Elektra and Stick awaited for Duchamps’ contact on a rooftop.
-We can’t. That’s what makes it fun.- Natchios smiled.
Suddenly, a large, white aerial vehicle appeared in front of them. On it's rear end, it had a moon shaped vertical wing.
Elektra smiled at Marc and nodded. -I already like him.-
-Even if we take down the Midland Circle, they’ll bring it back up. They get the funding from your company and the heroin trade.- The old man replied.
-How long would a DNA test last?- Iron Fist asked.
-It depends on how much you’re willing to spend.- Nelson explained. -Private labs can have 72 hour turn around times, but other take from 3 to 9 months.-
-Months?!- Rand exclaimed. -I don’t have that much time…-
-I could pay for your test,- Hogarth suggested, -but the waiting times for the legal system to validate it… Especially in your situation… It would take awhile.-
-So if I wanted immediate solutions…-
-You’d have to meet up with the Meachums yourself.- Foggy continued.
Danny walked inside the Rand Enterprises building and headed towards the receptionist. -I would like to see Ward Meachum.-
-Do you have an appointment?- The woman replied, without looking up. -What’s your name?-
-I’m Danny Rand.-
The employee looked up at him. -I’m serious. What’s your name?-
-I’m Daniel Rand, son of Wendell and Heather Rand.-
-Daniel Rand is dead.-
-No, he’s… I’m not!-
-Sir, please, leave the building.-
-I need to see Ward.-
-Mr. Meachum isn’t here.- The woman lied.
-Then Joy.- Danny said, heading himself to the elevator.
The woman screamed and two security guards ran towards the Iron Fist. He turned around slowly and started blocking the punches they threw at him. Shannon, the head of security held out a baton and hit the Rand’s stomach. The latter closed his eyes briefly and delivered a blow against his assailant’s wrists, making him drop the baton. Having defeated the guards, he stepped inside the elevator and pressed the top floor, where his father’s office used to be.
Rand headed towards the glass door, through which he could see his childhood friends. Swinging it open, he approached the Meachums.
-Ward… Joy…- He smiled at her.
-Uh… Who are you?- The man raised an eyebrow, as their assistant, Megan, rushed inside the office. -Megan?- Ward looked at her.
-I don’t know who he is, sir.-
-It’s me, Danny.-
-What Danny?- Ward scrunched his face.
-Danny… Danny Rand.-
-Danny is dead.- Joy said firmly.
-No, I’m not. Everyone believed I was, but I am not. I survived the plane crash. I was taken in by monks from K’un-Lun.-
-Megan, call Shannon. This man is clearly insane.- The other man ordered, as his assistant complied.
-No, Ward! It’s really me. I’m here to warn you…-
-Warn us?- Joy inquired.
Shannon appeared in the room from behind Danny, attacking him with a taser.
-This company has been infiltrated by members of the Hand!- The Iron Fist exclaimed, as he was tased again and knocked unconscious.
The head of security and two other guys picked him up and dropped him in the alley next to the building.
When Rand finally opened his eyes, he found himself laying on a couch besides a fireplace. Sitting up, he saw a shadowy figure looking out of the window. Immediately, the Iron Fist got up and got in a defensive stance.
-I had missed you, boy.- The other man said, smiling.
-… Harold?-
-Yes, indeed.-
-H-How? You’re supposed to be dead.-
-So are you.- Meachum smiled.
-Why… Why did you bring me here?-
-Oh, I didn’t personally do it. I’m not supposed to be out of this penthouse.- He shrugged. -Kyle over there did it.- He pointed at the scrawny assistant who awkwardly waved at Rand.
-I’m so confused.- The Iron Fist put his palms on his forehead.
-Ward told me about the… Episode at his office.-
-Y-Yes… I know it sounds crazy but…-
Harold signaled him to stop talking and Rand complied. Then, he looked at the cameras around the living room and mouthed “They are watching”.
“The Hand?” Danny whispered back and Meachum nodded very slightly.
-Does Ward know?- Rand asked.
-That I’m alive? Yes.- Meachum stared into the young man’s blue eyes, making it clear that he didn’t know about the Hand.
-What about Joy?-
-She is… More emotional. I don’t know if she could’ve kept the secret.-
Danny nodded.
-I need you to help me with something.-
-Sure, what is it?-
-Can you help me make the company what it was when your father and I founded it? Get rid of all the… Unwanted employees.-
-Absolutely. It may take awhile to prove my identity but…- Danny agreed, getting the indirect message.
-But I’m sure you’ll find unconventional methods, am I right?-
-Yes, indeed.- Rand replied, wondering if Harold knew about him being the Iron Fist. -I’ll do it.-
The Defenders, Elektra and Stick stood on top of a rooftop next to Madame Gao’s warehouse.
-The Hand has infiltrated the police, too.- Stick pointed out. -All it takes is a high rank officer cutting surveillance on this place, and the rats come back in.-
The workers stopped their tasks and faced the vigilantes, as they started to fight them displaying impressive fighting skills. From atop the stairs leading to the warehouse, Madame Gao smiled as the battle took place.
Moon Knight leaped and threw six crescent darts at their opponents, as Hellcat ran towards a wall, jumped and did a backflip, kicking a man’s head. Elektra grabbed her sai and spun gracefully, stabbing the henchmen as she moved past them.
Seeing how her workers were being slaughtered by Elektra and Stick, and knocked out by the Defenders, Gao walked down the stairs and held out her hand at the heroes, pushing them against the wall with her telekinesis.
-Gao…- Stick smirked. -Long time no see. I was surprised you didn’t come see me at the restaurant. I was starting to worry about you.-
-I appreciate your concern, but I have little time to spare on pleasantries, Stick. I’m busy trying to fulfill the Hand’s true purpose.-
-It'll never happen.-
-It's already happening. You're just unable to see it.- She smiled, pulling out her cane sword and holding it out at Stick.
-We’ve done this over and over again, Gao. I thought you’d get bored eventually.- Stick stood up and unsheathed his katana.
-I spent most of the 17th century being interrogated. I’m used to the lack of innovation.-
The two elders’ swords clashed, as they moved around the warehouse.
-Are you going to give up soon?- She inquired.
-I’m not one to give up on things.-
-Then I’ll have to cut this duel short. As I’ve previously stated, I’m busy.- She smirked, using her left hand to push Stick against a pile of boxes in a corner.
Seeing how Gao was about to escape, Hellcat stood up and ran towards the K’un-Lunan, whose reflexes allowed her to pull out her curved blade and make a deep cut on the woman’s side, who fell to the ground. Jessica ran towards her best friend and started applying pressure on the wound.
-If I were you, I would get going. She won’t survive long.- Gao smirked, walking out of a door. Daredevil tried to follow her, but when he opened the door again, she was no longer there.
-You have trouble believing that but not that a blind lawyer can see, or that he is bulletproof?- Elektra raised her eyebrows, nodding at Luke.
The next morning, as the Defenders were about to leave Claire’s apartment, Murdock walked inside Temple’s room, where she was searching through her wardrobe.
Bakuto and Colleen Wing walked around the gardens, watching the young residents train.
-There’s someone I want you to meet… More than one someone, really.- He chuckled.
She smiled and looked at him. -Sure. Who is it?-
-They are… They have been my allies for so long now. We grew old together, basically. And they supported the Compound since day one.-
-They sound like really nice people.-
-Just recently, one of us left indefinitely… So we were kinda needing a replacement. I am vouching for you.-
-But… But you have been friends for so long… I’ll be completely out of place.-
-I’m sure you won’t. I have faith in you.-
-Thank you…- Wing smiled and looked at the ground.
-Our transport is here.- Bakuto smiled at the woman.
-Wait, now?!- She exclaimed.
-Yes! Come on!- He laughed as he led her to the car and the two got inside.
-Midland Circle.- Colleen commented as they approached the building. -I heard about it.-
-Ambitious, right?- He smiled. -It was funded by us… Technically, one of us.-
-Oh, wow.- She raised her eyebrows, looking at its height.
As they walked inside the Fingers’ meeting room, they met with Sowande and Murakami.
-Where’s Gao?- Bakuto inquired.
-ここにはない.- Murakami shrugged.
Suddenly, Gao walked inside the room. -I apologize for the tardiness. Last night they attacked my warehouse, killing many workers.-
-Who?- Colleen whispered to Bakuto.
-Criminals.- He whispered back.
-Bakuto, are ya goin’ to introduce us to your new friend?- Sowande smiled mockingly.
-This is Colleen Wing. She has been my apprentice for some time now and she’s one of the most proficient swordswomen I’ve ever met.-
-好みの武器?- Murakami asked.
-カタナ.- She replied before anyone could attempt to translate for her.
-She speaks Japanese, I see?- Gao pointed out.
-Yes. I grew up in northern Honshu with my grandfather. Then I moved in here to live with my father, Professor Lee Wing.-
Gao and Murakami looked at each other, and then nodded.
-Have you ever heard about the Chaste?- Gao asked.
-I’m afraid not… Why?-
-Just curious… What about the Hand?-
She shook her head. -Should I have?- She looked up at her Sensei.
-No.- Bakuto reassured her. Then he looked at his allies. -So, what do you say?-
-はい.- Murakami nodded.
-We will think about it.- Gao put her hand on her teammate’s shoulder. -Thank you for your time.- She dismissed Colleen, who looked at Bakuto.
-Wait for me outside.-
She nodded and did as he said.
Misty Knight walked inside the Harlem’s Paradise, which looked less fancy now that Cottonmouth wasn’t running the place anymore. She took a seat and looked up at the balcony where Stokes used to sit. It was empty. She sighed and looked at the stage, where Jidenna was singing “Long Live The Chief”.
-Ironic.- She muttered to herself. After some minutes passed, she realized no one would come take her order, so she stood up and sneaked inside the kitchen, where there was barely any personnel.
Suddenly, she felt a gun cocking next to her skull. Tone, Cottonmouth’s former bodyguard, was standing next to her.
-What are you doing here?- He asked bitterly.
Without saying a word, Knight grabbed his wrist with her bionic hand and twisted it, making him drop the weapon. The kitchen personnel ran out the door, leaving them alone in the room.
Misty pushed him against the opposite wall and lifted him up, holding her prosthetic fist some inches away from his face.
-Who is the White Hat?-
Tone looked up at her, smirking.
-I asked you something.- She tightened her grip around his collar.
-And I won’t say sh*t.-
-Are you sure?- She said, pressing the cold metal knuckles against his cheeks.
-I’m sure.- He smiled.
Using her feet, she picked up the gun and aimed it at the man’s face.
-Go ahead. Shoot me.- He taunted her.
She closed her eyes briefly, before crushing the gun with her enhanced hand and letting the man go.
-Now, I suggest you leave before it gets ugly.- He smiled, threateningly.
The former detective gave up and turned around, walking out of the kitchen and the nightclub.
29th Precinct Police Station.
-Misty, what are you doing here?- Lt. Rafael Scarfe asked his former partner as she walked inside his office.
-I need access to the city’s surveillance cameras.-
-Misty, you’re no longer a member of the N.Y.P.D., I cannot do that…-
-Rafe… This is serious. Someone is employing young men to do their dirty work.-
-And why didn’t you report it accordingly?-
-Scarfe.- She looked at him sternly.
-Alright.- He gave up, standing up from his chair and letting her access his computer. -Who are you looking for?-
-Someone called “the White Hat”. I was told I would recognize him by his clothing.-
After looking through footage for hours, they finally spotted a black man in white clothing and wearing a white hat entering Midland Circle.
-Eureka.- Scarfe smiled.
-Now, what is the link between this man and the building?-
-Maybe he was looking for an apartment?- Rafe shrugged.
-Maybe.- She shook her head briefly, dismissing the possibility.
Knightwing Restorations Ltd.’s Office.
-Is your Sensei starting to replace me?- Misty joked when Colleen walked into the building.
The next morning, as soon as she woke up, Colleen got dressed and walked to her father’s apartment.
-Colleen! You finally came to see me!- He exclaimed as he opened the door, embracing his daughter.
She hugged him back, as they closed the door behind them. Professor Wing sat on his armchair as the woman pulled a stool in front of him.
-So what brings you here? I mean, I doubt you’re just visiting your father because you missed me.-
Colleen chuckled. -Well, a bit of both.-
The man smiled.
-Have you ever heard of the Chaste and the Hand?-
-Oh, yes.- He nodded, standing up. -They were created almost at the same time as ninjas.- He walked to a shelf and pulled out a book, handing it to his daughter. -Right now they’re a myth. I’ve heard claims about them still existing, but I genuinely doubt it.-
Colleen opened the book and started scrolling through the pages.
-Their goal was to free a demon called the Beast, which would take over a host… The Black Sky, that’s what they called that host. The Chaste was their counterpart, which tried to prevent them from fulfilling their nefarious goal.- Professor Lee explained.
The woman stopped scrolling when she spotted a painting dating of the 15th Century of the Five Fingers of the Hand. A man she didn’t know… Sowande… Murakami… Madame Gao… And Bakuto. Bakuto had been alive since then. And he was part of an evil organization.
-I’m a member of the Hand…- She whispered.
Suddenly, a knife smashed through the window, hitting the Professor’s heart.
-FATHER!- She exclaimed, running to her progenitor. She looked out of the window and spotted a man leaping off a rooftop and walking towards the building. Enraged, she grabbed the katana and ran down the fire escape stairs, before jumping to ground level.
-Colleen Wing…- The man smirked, holding a knife between his eyes.
-WHO ARE YOU?! WHY DID YOU KILL MY FATHER?!-
-They call me Bullseye… And I’m a member of the Hand.- He said, throwing a knife at her.
-Bring it on…- She whispered, unsheathing her katana and deflecting the throwing knife, making it hit a trash can. Bullseye pulled out three cards and threw them at her opponent. While Colleen could slice two of them in half, the third one hit her arm, slicing her skin.
-Bullseye!!!- He leaped forwards and kicked the warrior’s chest, pushing her against a wall. Skillfully, he stepped over a garbage can lid, propelling it upwards, and grabbed it midair, before throwing it at Wing’s knees.
-You dishonor yourself…- She told him, as Colleen fell to the ground, weakened.
-Haven't you heard? I'm a cold blooded killer.- He chuckled, pacing around his opponent. -You know, it's too bad I killed my mother in high school... She would have loved this…- Lester said seriously, before smirking. -Joking. She wouldn't a' cared.-
He pulled the last knife out of his belt and threw it at Colleen, but suddenly, someone stepped in and deflected the weapon with a sharp noise.-Look who’s here!- Lester exclaimed joyfully.
Elektra helped Colleen up, before turning to face Bullseye.
-What are you gonna do now?- Wing asked. -You just lost your last knife.-
-You still don't get it, do you? I'm Bullseye. In my hands, anything is a weapon…- He picked up the garbage can with ease and threw it towards the women, who dodged it. Elektra pulled her other sai out and threw both of them at the Hand member, who laughed at the attempt. He turned around, ready to pick up one of her sai.
-I wouldn’t do that if I were you.- She warned him. However, he wasn’t backing off. -Don’t. Touch. My Sai!- Natchios yelled, running towards her enemy and kicking his chest repeatedly. He grabbed her leg and tried to immobilize her, but the Black Sky used Lester’s body for support, doing a flip above him and landing next to her twin sai. She slid her leg against his knees, making him drop. She picked up her trademark weapons and held one of them against his neck.
-You can’t do it… Can you?- He chuckled. -I have to say I'm flattered. I didn't know if I'd still have this effect on you. I mean, I know I'm not the only one who's killed you. But I guess it's true what they say… You never forget your first.-
Enraged, she was ready to slice his throat when she was hit by one of Lester’s knives. He had picked it up during the confrontation. Natchios took a couple steps backwards and when she was ready to keep the fight, Bullseye was on a rooftop already, waving bye.
-I’m sorry for your loss.- She finally spoke up. -The Hand has been a synonym of loss and death in my life.-
-You know them?- Colleen looked up at her savior.
-I used to be one of them… Not exactly voluntarily, you could say.-
-How did you know I was in trouble?-
-There’s… There’s a team. We’ve been keeping an eye on everyone walking in or out of the Midland Circle.-
-Thank you…- Colleen sighed, looking down at her father. -Should we report it to the cops? My best friend used to be a cop.-
-They won’t believe us. They haven’t in years, they won’t change now.-
-So what do we do?-
-Come with me… If you want to destroy the Hand.- Elektra ordered, walking away from the apartment.
As the two women walked inside the Defender’s warehouse, Colleen ran towards Danny, as they embraced.
-We should get going.- Stick said.
-No place or land will stay safe for long. We better start running now.-
-Does everyone here know his secret identity?- Elektra inquired.
-It’s not gonna be that simple.- Stick shook his head. -The Hand is a global organization. But… We could get rid of the remaining Fingers.-
-Bakuto, Gao, Murakami, Nobu and Sowande. Nobu’s gone already…-
As Misty was walking out of the bomb squad locker with the explosives, Lt. Scarfe appeared in front of her.
-Misty… What are you doing?-
-Rafe… I know what it looks like…-
-Is it not what it looks like?-
-It is… But…-
-But why didn’t you let me in on the plan?- He smiled.
The Defenders, Elektra, Stick, Misty and Rafe gathered at the Midland Circle’s entrance.
-I’ll stall the cops.- Scarfe said. -You do… Whatever it is you have to do.- He looked at the heroes.
-Oh, you definitely do.-
The Defenders, joined by Elektra and Stick, walked inside the building, where they were immediately greeted by Hand ninjas.
-Shut up.- Stick grunted.
The Defenders ran towards the ninjas, who in turn were headed their way.
Daredevil and Hellcat leaped, both kicking a Hand member’s chest. Luke and Misty ran towards a pair of ninjas, punching their faces.
In striking contrast, Elektra and Stick were visibly comfortable bringing the hurt, in a very violent and bloody way.
-What’s going on, Matthew?- Elektra asked.
-That’s where they are releasing the Beast.- Stick nodded, confirming his thoughts.
-The kid is right.- Stick said. -This must be the final, permanent strike.-
Luke and Misty started placing the C-4 around the building, while the rest of the Defenders headed to the subterranean hole.
As the two heroes from Harlem were placing the explosives, they were approached by Sowande, who was smirking.
-Mercedes Knight. I heard you were lookin’ for me…- The man said. -And Luke Cage. I never got to thank you. For gettin’ rid of Cottonmouth and Diamondback… As hard as Dillard and Shades try, they’re not good enough.-
-That’s the thing, Detective Knight. I don’t strive to be “good”.- He chuckled. -Nor bad. I wanna transcend those terms… I’ve lived long enough to be on both sides of that coin.-
-If everything goes as planned, none of us are.- He ran towards the man with unbreakable skin and staggered him with his blows through the use of pressure points.
-I wouldn’t do that if I were you.- He laughed. -We’re surrounded by explosives.-
-So would your friends.- He smirked.
As soon as the rest of the Defenders got to the hole, they were greeted by Bakuto, who held his arms out at them.
-Colleen! Have you considered my offer?- He smiled.
-Oh, that wasn’t me! That was Lester!- He dismissed the claim. -I just told him everything he needed to know.- His face hardened, now showing how evil he truly was. He swiftly pulled out his own sword and clashed it against Colleen’s. Claire ran to aid her new friend, holding out her knife.
-黒い空…- Murakami whispered to Madame Gao, pointing at Elektra.
-Oh, yes.- The lady nodded, smiling. -It looks like Nobu wasn’t so mistaken after all. I’ve been alive long enough to watch the world change in many ways. But this change now, it feels significant.-
The woman turned around, lighting the candles that formed a regular pentagram on the ground. Suddenly, she turned around and pushed Iron Fist away, hitting his chest hard.
-We have to stop her!- Stick said running to the woman, followed by Daredevil and Elektra.
Gao pulled out her cane sword and held it against Stick’s, while she skillfully dodged Murdock and Natchios’ attacks.
Masterfully, Bakuto held his own against Colleen and, after a fair fight, eventually overpowered his student.
-After all that we've been through, at least we can take some comfort knowing that in your final moments you'll be giving to the Hand.- He smirked.
-No I haven't Colleen, not yet… You disappoint me. As a child, all you ever wanted was to belong to something. That's why I saved you, Colleen, raised you, because that same desire was once in me. Is this your family now, hmm? Well, let me remind you who you really are by taking that away… I wish it could end another way.-
-ハンド. 空…- Murakami started chanting.
-He’s gonna unleash the Beast!!! Stop him!- Stick ordered.
Moon Knight threw a crescent dart at the Hand member, while he ran towards him alongside Hellcat and Jessica.
-…クラン…- The Hand’s Finger pulled out his tonfa and hit Patsy with it, pushing her away.
-…獣…-
Jones was about to punch the Hand member, but he grabbed her fist and pushed her aside. Then, he grabbed the crescent dart Spector had thrown at him earlier and slashed his palm, making blood drop in the middle of the pentagram.
-自由になれ!- Murakami screamed.
Everyone in the room stopped moving, and turned around to see the geometrical shape set up by Gao’s candles. From within, a ghostly looking monster rose, flying towards Elektra and entering her body. Violently, she levitated and then crashed against the floor, as her red outfit became black and her eyes turned red.
-She was the Black Sky…- Stick muttered.
-You seem surprised.- Gao commented.
-I was hoping we would all be wrong…-
As the ground shook underneath them, Sowande pulled out his guns and held them at Misty. -The Beast has been unleashed.- He smiled. -I have achieved my goal. Now I can shoot you and end you and your friends for good.- The White Hat pulled the triggers repeatedly.
-What?!- Sowande asked surprised, trying to reload.
-Ellie…- Stick walked to his protege slowly. -I know you’re still there… Dig deep.- Without a word, she dug her sai into his chest and pulled them out, as the old man fell to the ground.
-Matty…- The man faced Daredevil, who pulled his mask off. -N-None… Of you are l-l-living up to… Your full potential… You-You’re good, but you c-c-can do better… Grab life by the throat, and never let go…- He whispered, before any sign of life left his body.
Daredevil, Jessica Jones and Night Nurse approached Elektra, whose already superb fighting skills, speed and strength had been enhanced. With extreme ease, she dodged the heroes’ attacks and countered with her sai.
Iron Fist and Moon Knight stood in front of Madame Gao, who was holding her cane before her.
-The Protector of K’un-Lun and the Avatar of Khonshu.- She smiled at them. -You are supposed to be formidable adversaries but… In all honesty, you lack a lot.- She moved towards Spector and hit certain spots with her bare hands, paralyzing the vigilante.
Rand closed his eyes, and put his right fist against his left palm, as Daredevil faced Elektra. Suddenly, Danny’s fist started glowing.
Natchios opened her eyes, now back to the usual blue Matt loved so much. He ran to Elektra and held her close.
-Matthew…- She whispered.
Immediately, she looked at the Hand members, who were desperately trying to free the Beast again. Then, she faced Matt. -You need to leave, now. Blow the building up.-
-Matthew… This is who I am. This is my purpose. I am the Black Sky. And while I’m around… Not even the stars are safe in the sky.-
-Let them come.- She dismissed them. -I’ll stall them until you’re safe.-
-Matthew, after all these years?- She smiled. -Haven’t you realized that it’s my way or the graveyard?-
-I know I am. Now go.- She nodded, as he kissed her. She kissed back, placing her hands behind his neck.
As the Defenders got on the elevator, she smiled at them before turning around.
-Have you finally decided to serve the Hand?- Gao inquired, smiling.
-I. Serve. No one.- She replied sternly.
-あなたは私たちを倒すことができると思いますか?あなたは力がない.- Murakami said confidently.
-I don’t need powers to do what I do.-
-Of course not. You’re the Black Sky.- Madame Gao smirked.
-Elektra is my real name.- She answered, as she ran towards the two remaining Fingers of the Hand.
As the Defenders got out of the elevator, they met up with Luke and Misty.
As the heroes started to go their separate ways, Danny walked to Matt.
Jessica and Luke walked to them.
Moon Knight approached Luke.
Address to places like Abbey Road
Day turns to night, night turns to whatever we want
We're young enough to say… ♫
This could really be a good life, good life
Say oh, got this feeling that you can't fight
Like this city is on fire tonight
This could really be a good life
A good, good life ♫
Where I've been for the past few years or so
Paris to China to Colorado ♫
This could really be a good life, good life
Say oh, got this feeling that you can't fight
Like this city is on fire tonight
This could really be a good life
A good, good life ♫Notes[]
- Songs featured in this episode:
- Jessica Jones' sprite was made by User:SpencerWalker21.
- Matt Murdock's sprite was made by User:Sunder4321.