Next Generation

13: Closer

As time progressed, so did the long and extensive hours of training, strict rules, accelerated learning, and the constant feeling of sore limbs.

Two weeks had gone by since they'd decided the Next Avengers were to be introduced at Stark Expo, and for two weeks all they did was train.

James's arm healed two days after, the gash leaving behind a faint, thin scar. He tried to wear sleeveless tops often, saying that he looked pretty bad ass now that he had a scar.

Francis's chest pains were a thing of the past now, and he could now shoot from a farther distance. Tony and Clint assigned Luke and Victoria to try and develop new arrows.

Torunn's and Victoria's head injuries were barely anything, and Luke, well he was just extremely exhausted.

Finally, at exactly 10:34, the kids poppled down at the dinner table to try and catch their breath. They'd been at it for almost three hours, currently their longest battle. Out of exhaustion, Steve didn't even bother to tell them who was in first place, even though they pretty much knew. Francis Barton was on fire today. His arrows made their lasting impact on everything their tips' touched.

But now, even he didn't have enough energy to gloat.

"I am going to die", James's said, gulping down his water bottle, the sides caving in as he did.

"You can't. We have Stark Expo in like two more weeks", Luke countered. His skin was no longer green and exposed. He wasn't sweating, but his insides, and his muscles just couldn't go on anymore. His skin was pale and he looked like he was about to pass out at any minute.

"He is right. We must keep on going", Torunn encouraged the group as the adults entered the room.

"Good job, guys", Clint smiled at them as he walked over to Francis. His grin as big as a cat's as Steve explained who was obviously in first place.

Even though they were all tired, sweaty, and irritated, they mustered up enough courage just to clap for Francis.

"Is everything ready yet?", James asked as he reached for another bottle. He popped it open and took a big swing.

"Duh", Tony gave him a funny look. "You guys are the final piece of the puzzle".

Stark Expo was in two more weeks. Just two. And because of their luck, those two weeks were going to go by fast.

The group stayed in silence, not really sure what to say. There was still some slight tension between Steve and Tony, nothing that was unusual.

"Well you better shower and get to bed", Bruce said looking down at his watch. "It's almost 10:38".

Their heads perked up. The lights go off at exactly eleven, and they didn't want to shower in the dark. They bolted up the stairs, ready to take a short yet relaxing shower in their rooms.

"Are you guys nervous?", asked James as he stepped aside to let everyone step on the last step. "I mean, it's going to be pretty huge".

Victoria shrugged. "You get used to it".

"Well you obviously had to. We've never been to Stark Expo", Francis rolled his eyes, teasing her. "She didn't even know what it was", he flicked his chin over at Torunn's direction.

"Whatever this event might be, I am certain I'll do better", she challenged Francis, squinting her eyes.

"Yeah right", he scoffed, crossing his arms at his chest.

"Oh give it up, Francis!", Luke laughed. James and Victoria snickering besides him.

"Give what up?", he asked exasperated, jerking his head from side to side, uncrossing his arms.