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Namor Drabbles

Summary:

Chapters of Namor interacting with characters and world around him because Netease doesn’t do him justice.

Chapter 1: Namor Misses Jim

Summary:

Namor misses Jim and makes it Logan’s problem.

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

The beaches of Krakoa were certainly an experience. Not a good one. Not when you’re stuck with the child torch, Grimm, a human rodent, and a raccoon. 

Namor sat in the sand watching the fools mess around and yell far too loudly for his liking. Emma had generously given them time to rest before the gala in the coming evening. However, Namor could hardly rest with the overstimulating noise and prominent ache in his chest.

Namor missed Jim. 

He missed his fire that grew to become a comfort.

He missed the smiles that greeted him at the end of every battle.

He missed the moments in cold winters when they’d be shoulder to shoulder. The cold never affected him but Jim would sit there anyways.

He missed when Jim accompanied him into the cold waters. Even when Namor tried to escape the stresses of war, Jim was there. 

He missed the way a single glance could convey everything to Jim. 

Yet Namor was here, on a beach, with a torch who wasn’t —

“Yo! What’s with the bummed look dude, isn’t this kinda your thing? I mean with the beach and the sand…”

Suddenly the smaller rodent blasted his mechanically improved water gun at the torch. He fell. He kicked up sand and water all over Namor.

“Rocket! Hahaha! So not cool man.”

The torch got out and chased the rodent, completely forgetting the king he’d defiled. 

The ache felt worse. Anger started to boil as well. They all had no consideration. Forgotten Namor in an instant. Not even a basic apology. 

The anger almost overpowered the ache. Thank god for his common sense. It would be irrational to drown the fools, especially when the entirety of the universe is crumbling.

Namor got up and decided time in the cool waters would soothe his growing irritation. Waves pushed up against him as he waded into deeper waters. He felt his gills flutter and open to the welcoming feeling. 

Now fully submerged, he curled in on himself. Namor brought his knees to his chest and rested his head. The voices and laughter above became muffled. Everything got quieter.

Jim would have followed him. He would have noticed Namor’s distress. He’d have dived in with him with a gentle smile. Namor would return with a glare. They’d be there all day if needed. Jim never left.

Where was Jim? Namor missed him.

He didn’t miss the torch up there. His shallowness, his overconfident attitude, his irritating lack of care, his recklessness. Yet he had taken the name. The name Namor once called with a fondness no longer present in his voice.

Johnny didn’t deserve such an honorable name. 

He wasn’t the real torch. Namor wanted the real one.

The one who was mindful of his flames. Jim knew when they’d bother Namor. He’d quiet them down and allow Namor to breathe. 

Namor felt the tears well up. He couldn’t cry. The waters swirled around him, reacting to their kings turmoil. A whirlpool of caresses to his body. Namor wasn’t ever alone, the seas would always be there.

But it wasn’t Jim. When the horrid actions of the Nazis became overwhelming, when Namor saw the carnage to peoples so similar to each other; tears would well.

A naive, arrogant prince out of his element in a war so much bigger than himself.

Yet Jim would hug him. Steam would rise. Both of them still, deep breathes, still feeling the rush from the battle moments before.

Jim was a comfort for a fish out of water. Homesick and lost, fear of those Nazis who'd hunt down his people.

The water wasn’t helping. Namor reemerged. The group had questioning looks toward him. Probably for the mini whirlpool. Namor couldn’t care. He needed to leave.

He started a walk from the beach onto one of the many paths. There was no end goal, Namor didn’t know what he was doing at this point. He just wanted the ache gone.

The torches lining the paths didn’t help either. It was midday, they served no purpose other than decoration and to remind Namor of Jim. 

Namor paused and stared at one of them. Perhaps it was impulsive but he raised his hand over the flames. They tickled his skin and warmed hand. He was dangerously close to shoving his whole hand in the fire for some semblance of comfort.

”The hell are you doin’ Namor?”

A rough hand grabbed Namor’s wrist and pulled it from the fire. If Namor was in a better headspace, there’d have certainly been consequences for such indignity. But he couldn’t care now.

”You gonna talk bub? You’re lookin’ rough for some time in a place like this.”

Logan never thought he’d see Namor like this. The king radiated strength, part of the reason Mag and Emma were so eager to ally with him. Krakoa being protected by a man controlled the seas was a hell of a lot more reliable than some adamantium claws. Even if Logan didn’t want to admit it. 

It’s what made this downcast attitude all the more bizarre. But Logan didn’t know Namor well enough to console him, no one on the island did. So Logan did what he always did when he was down.

”You look like you need a drink. C’mon, I know a good pace to settle without all the noise.”

Namor perked up at this. Quiet and a drink didn’t sound all too bad, perhaps Logan was more tolerable than Emma made him seem.

“Can we make a fire there?”

“Sure bub, as long as you ain’t puttin’ yer hand in it.”

Namor felt that was a fine compromise.

And Logan couldn’t be bothered to care for Namor’s pyromaniac quirk. He’s seen far worse.

So they trekked to Logan’s spot. Namor hoped he had strong alcohol. Even if it wasn’t, Namor would just drink until he couldn’t. He hoped Logan wouldn’t make him drink from glass. Namor needed a bottle, maybe even a few. 

So they drank like madmen over a raging fire. They were truly mad doing this midday.

The two of them weren’t close before this and they certainly weren’t close afterwards. But if Logan learned one thing, it was that Namor missed Jim (whoever the hell that was).

 

Notes:

First time ever writing a fic. Any advice or criticism is welcome. Parts of this felt messy and out of place.

I have no idea what happened to Jim or if this is meant to be a ship. I just felt like writing about one of my favorite duos.

Might do Groot and Namor next. I think that’d be cute but I’m also leaning towards the Krakoa seedlings.

Chapter 2: Emma and Namor Team Up

Summary:

Emma and Namor are allied for their own benefit, however, they gain better understandings of each other and a deeper friendship through it.

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Emma and Namor allied to further their goals.

Namor secured further protection to his oceanic empire. If the mutants were in his side, less would be willing to cause harm. He also gained a greater understanding of Krakoa and its mutants immortality. 

Emma also gained protection. The island of Krakoa is surrounded by seas her new ally could manipulate however he wants. The eldritch sea monsters were a plus. However, she also needed help with her new war against alchemax.

In order to find mutants a place in the 2099 era Krakoa was sent to, she used the flowers of Krakoa and their healing properties to ally with nations and promote the mutants in a good light. It was a genius plan on her part, but Alchemax wouldn’t sit by and watch with plummeting stocks. They sent out mercenaries to try and sink the Marauder and its fleet anytime it was sent to deliver the flowers to a nation.

While Emma was strong enough to deal with them, it slowed down business. She needed the Hellfire Trading Company’s influence to reach as far as possible and as quickly as possible.

This is where Namor proved the value of their alliance. He could sense the mercenary ships in the waters and steer them away. With his wings, the Mariner could scout out the skies as well and deter planes. He made sure the waters were calm and directed them away from bad storms. There was no need for a large crew with extra men patrolling for surveillance. The fleet was in safer hands than ever with the two of them protecting it. They did prove to be quite the duo in battle.

Namor treaded the water as bullets flew past him. His wings flapping furiously as charged towards the ship. His trident flew they the air with precision and destroyed the rudder on one of the ships. He then flew to the sky right for the bridge. Not a single man could do anything against the kings merciless offense. Within moments an explosion erupted from the bridge. Namor gracefully floated down to deck at the bow of the ship. His creatures of the deep tore their tentacles from the water and crushed remaining ships effortlessly. 

Bullets ricocheted from Emma’s diamond skin. She whipped her legs around in heavy kicks, flinging the fools from the ship. The mercenary’s who were smart enough to keep a far distance didn’t fare much better. Her telepathic abilities permitted their minds. They walked right off the edge of the ship with their own legs.

The fight hardly lasted an hour and the fleet and cargo were untouched. While Namor handled offense, Emma stayed close for defense. They complimented each other greatly.

But they couldn’t leave the area of this fight yet, Namor wouldn’t never allow it. He always took time to make sure each of the sunken ships landed in the depths of the sea without harming any wildlife or habitat. Emma found it odd that Namor insisted on doing this himself. He had an army of krakens to command and still wasted precious time doing it alone.

”These ships can make great homes for the denizens of the deep. But I cannot allow them to destroy existing areas of importance. It is a duty Namor has, you must understand Emma. You, yourself are also prone to such hands on approaches. I’d assume you’d appreciate the care I take. After all it is a reflection the good will I have granted to Krakoa as well.”

This was the explanation offered to Emma when Namor had finished. He sat on the rails of a balcony of the side of the ship. Emma leaded against the railing beside him.

”I suppose what I’ve heard doesn’t reflect what you’ve shown me King Namor. Then again, the sources I hear from aren’t all that fond of you.”

”My kingdoms safety is of the utmost importance. Whether it is from a multiverse gone to hell or the continued pollution of my waters, Namor will stand strong and protect what is his. My people trust that I will do so and I will reward them for such gracious faith. I doubt any of my enemies will give you a fair look at me. That is for you to judge Ms. Frost.”

Emma couldn’t help but smile at his statement. His devotion to the oceanic empire mirrored Emma’s own love for Krakoa, Arrako, and all mutantkind. Yet Namor probably already knew that. He was quick to accept her alliance and Emma assumed it was her seductive prowess that won him over. However, Namor obviously cared for his kingdom more than getting laid in this mess. Perhaps opening up a bit more wouldn’t hurt.

”I’m glad you and I are allied King Namor. Finding a kindred spirit in this mess does help me feel less trapped.”

Namor obviously didn’t expect such an honest answer, he paused in thought for a moment.

“I feel the same Ms. Frost. Namor does not have many allies and working along so many strangers and former foes is difficult. Trusting them to support you regardless is hard.”

”Do you think you have to worry about trusting me?”

”No, you said it yourself. We are kindred spirits.”

The two eased into a silence with little conversation. This was a moment of reprieve for two tired souls. 

But as always it never lasts. A horrid stench flooded Namor’s nose. He gagged and covered his mouth. Emma stared quizzically. She didn’t have the heightened senses of the mariner. A quick look into his mind found the smell of trash. And as they came closer Emma started to pick up on it… disgusting.

A small trash island came into view. The twos nosed were assaulted by the appalling smell. It stung Namor’s eyes and he had a look of anger of his face. 

How many have died because of this mess? What kind of human ignorance allows for such things to occur? Do they really have no respect for the earth that has nurtured and cared for them? The utter stupidity of those arrogant, foul people!

This were the thoughts Emma heard in Namor’s head. She couldn’t help of feel sympathy for the king. He was fighting a never ending battle against a people who find every excuse ignore the plight of the environment. Emma wondered how she’d feel if this mess was on the shores of Krakoa. She knew that her rage would be insurmountable.

“King Namor, I understand that you’re enraged at this sight. This is your kingdom that has been polluted. I would the same if this was anywhere near Krakoa.”

Namor simply stared at the filthy, destitute mass. He finally took his hand away from his mouth and gave Emma a stern look.

”We have ships here, let me remove the garbage on to them. If you truly feel this way and are not spouting useless platitudes, let this all be disposed of.”

“We don’t have room. Plus, the flowers must be kept in a pristine condition. I can’t forsake such an important item for some trash. We’d also be carrying that for days. I’m not showing up to a nation with heaps of wet trash on my ships.”

Namor looked away, back at the trash. He was scouring for another solution in his mind. 

“On the way back. We shall come back to this area as we sail back and gather this trash. There will be no risk of appearance or ruining your flowers then. Is that acceptable Ms. Frost?”

Emma found this determination incredibly annoying. Her glorious ships to be dirtied, yet she couldn’t say no. They both understood the importance of a healthy environment, each of their peoples relied upon them heavily.

”Fine, I suppose that will work. But I will not be touching a single morsel of that trash. You hear me?”

”I thank you for such gracious understanding. And as a king I would never let the White Queen be sullied by such human filth.”

After coming to agreement all went smoothly. Emma expertly dealt with the delivering of Krakoa’s biopharmaceuticals. Then with Namor’s newfound urgency they returned to the garbage patch.

Emma had evacuated to a smaller ship far enough away to where the smell wouldn’t permeate her nose. She watched as Namor hauled the piles of filth into the ships. She could only imagine how awful it smelled. It didn’t take long but by the end, the many of the ships had an appalling stench to them. Namor did as well and Emma ordered him to take a shower or she’d have all the trash dumped right back in.

Emma and a freshly showed Namor relaxed on the deck. They didn’t talk, nothing needed to be said. Namor was happy to have a part of his oceans clean. Emma was happy to have completed another successful delivery. 

Emma concluded it was even better than the trips beforehand. She got a deeper look into Namor, even if she had to reveal herself in the process. But the two had a connection now that strengthen their alliance.

Namor felt this connection too. Emma was kind enough to help him clean the mess despite Namor giving her no incentive. He was grateful for that. He could also tell Emma cared for world around her just as much as him. After all, Krakoa was the livelihood of many mutants. If that island fell ill from pollutants, many mutants would suffer as well. Plus, the two of them worked together here perfectly. Who’s to say they wouldn’t elsewhere?

”Ms. Frost.”

”What is it?”

“I’d like to extend our alliance past this entanglement mess. I would like your help.”

“You want to permanently ally with me? I hope you know that includes the rest of Krakoa as well. Magneto will go as far as to call you a mutant of our land.”

Namor grimaced at the through. He ruled over himself and his kingdom. They did not belong to any mutant governance.

”I want to ally with you Ms. Frost. The oceans continue to be polluted and any attempt I make to stop it often ends in a fight.”

”You use rather violent means to stop the pollution, do you not? Are you asking me to help you fight this problem legally?”

“Yes. I can’t go around destroying every company that dumps waste into my seas, no matter how much I want to. The Fantastic 4 would most definitely have something to say about that.”

Emma thought for a moment. Namor was genuinely asking for help with something she too found to be a problem. If Emma helped him the oceans would become much cleaner. She had no doubt in her abilities to do so. It would take resources and time, but in doing this she could also take down rival companies. The public always looks upon pollution shamefully. It was a win for them both.

”I will lend you my help King Namor.”

Namor looked towards her and smiled. He knew she probably had something to gain as well, but he was appreciative either way.

”Thank you Ms. Frost. It truly means much to me. And it is Namor for you. If you plan to help me in earnest, I feel it is most appropriate.”

“Then it is just Emma to you as well dear.”

The two of them eased back into a silence. Namor thought of what filthy company he’d get to crush first, Emma wondered how she was even going to navigate this matter on the business scale. It was going to be a lot for the two of them. They’d certainly make waves in the media for such a unique partnership. But Emma couldn’t find herself to be unhappy, Namor was truly bringing out a kinder side of her.

They were both still cynical, ruthless anti-heroes who served themselves and their people. But now they could do that together while fighting for a cause that meant a lot to both of them. There was no way they wouldn’t reign chaos down on everyone one involved this new mess… and they wouldn’t have it any other way.

 

 

 

Notes:

Any criticism is welcome and I’d appreciate any help. I hope this one is good but it did feel like a lot going on, sorry bout that. Also I hate the ending and want to rewrite it. Still trying to work out a dynamic between Groot and Namor.

Did kinda rewrite the two to get rid of the sexual tension they have in-game tho. Some of that dialogue sucks. (Sue…)

These two are environmentalist divas to me. But not the type to chain themselves to trees to stop them from being cut down. They will hang you from the tree with the chain cuz they know humans will never listen otherwise.

Chapter 3: Groot Yaps to Namor

Summary:

Groot is dehydrated after a long battle on Wakanda. Namor helps him and they connect.

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

The battle on Wakanda was finally over…  thank whatever god T’Challa worshipped.

It was a difficult fight, even for the Mariner. They had to escort the Statue of Bast to the Hall of Djalia to free Wakanda’s goddess. Apparently this would aid them in the fight against Knull’s growing power. But the statue was burdensome to fight around and Namor’s help wasn’t very welcome by T’Challa in the first place. Despite that the statue was escorted and the team was finally given downtime. 

Everyone else had already left, excited to explore the vast intergalactic empire. The mariner was about to leave when he heard labored breathing behind him. It was coming from the tree like creature… Groot was it? The giant looked to be woven from roots and had clusters of leaves from certain branches. But he had certainly seen better days.

Chunks of branch and root were missing. Leaves were falling to floor beside the giant. New roots were attempting to grow and mend the areas of missing matter but failed. The new branches were far too fragile, the exhaustion was eminent but not surprising.

The alien giant fought valiantly against their foes. He was aware of their surroundings and protected the team on the front lines. He grew walls around to block voracious attacks and isolate foes. At one point he ensnared their opponents in a mess of strong branches and roots. Namor took the opportunity to summon Giganto’s wrath upon them. It was a defining moment that won them the battle and Namor couldn’t help the triumphant smile that came to his face. He could feel the same exhilarating feeling from the creature as well.

Perhaps that is what drew Namor back to his side. Water was more of scarce source in the Wakandan Empire now that it was in space. But Namor could easily help the creature.

”You need water.”

Namor remarked this in a very matter-of-factly manner. The tree-like being looked up at him sluggishly. 

”I am… Groot.”

The tone was tiring and strained. Groot’s eyes looked back over the wounds on its body. He was lamenting his pained condition as he knew water was a scare resource.

”I shall aid you. You fought in such a commendable way. Namor respects your resolve and power.”

He moved to sit next to the floral giant. Placing his hand on the side of one of the lacerations on his side, Namor produced freshwater for the creature to soak up. The roots responded immediately by curling around Namor’s hand. It reminded him of his monstro spawns and the way they would cling to him. Namor began to caress the roots in his hand instinctively.

Groot leaned his body down to get closer to Namor. His smooth hand was a great comfort and soothed Groot. His presented one of his upper arms to Namor that had a chunk of branch taken out. It was slightly singed around the edge of the wound. Namor carefully removed the burned parts of his roots, engrossed in the task of helping his ally. 

Groot usually hated when his branches were picked or someone took off his leaves. That was a part of him that he grew and nurtured into life. To take away a part of Groot’s matter, no matter how small, was hurtful. But there was care and intent in the way Namor did it. All of the pieces were taken off with precision Groot hardly felt a thing. 

“I am Groot.”

The tone was much more gentle this time. A very brief thank you.

”You don’t need to limit yourself to such bland vocabulary. Namor can understand your thoughts just fine. Speak freely will you, otherwise this will become redundant.”

“You can understand me. There is so much I want to say— Thank you for this. I wasn’t sure I was going to make it. Your waters have truly helped me so much and I am sincerely grateful. Oh, and earlier you were amazing in battle. Such power was a marvel to see— Your not going to believe what happened the other day with Rocket…”

Namor listened as Groot rambled on. His voice was deep and calming, but didn’t fail to express his emotions as he explained his comical stories. The King simply listened and continued his task. He surmised that the colossal creature didn’t get this opportunity much. Namor wouldn’t interrupt him. 

They continued for hours and Namor’s hands went over every wound on Groot’s body. He seemed to have completely forgot why Namor was even there, too engrossed in a story about two of his teammates: Drax and Mantis.

“Where is your crew Groot?”

Namor interrupted the story. He was curious. Did they get separated in different timelines? An unfortunate accident? A different mission?

”Ah, away doing research for Ms. Shuri. I am no help in such scenarios and I’m glad I stayed either way. I am much more help here than on some planet days away. But I can’t wait for them to get back, there is so much I want to tell them.”

“Don’t they already understand you?”

“Well, yes— But it’s not the same. Saying I am Groot and telling them how much they mean to me in real words is different. I want to make them laugh and say things like good morning. I want to say thank you to them and reminisce with them. I just can’t do that the same way.”

“It must be lonely.”

It was a simple remark on Namor’s part yet it said so much about Groot. 

“I’m surround by so many people that care about me. I just want to convey that to them the same way they always do to me. But I wish I could laugh along side them and make dumb jokes like Peter can.”

Namor thought for a moment. Groot had much more depth to him than Namor ever thought. He had longing and emotions that mirrored Namor’s as well. Loneliness hurt worse anything.

“When are the rest of the Guardians coming back?”

“Within the next two days if everything runs smoothly. Why?”

”When they do, come find me. Namor shall help you communicate.”

Groot visibly excited at this. His branches curled even further around Namor and pulled him closer to the Floral Colossus’s body.

”You’d really do that? Thank you! There is so much I should say, I’ll have to think about this. What do you think about…”

And onto the rambling again. Namor had completely finished healing Groot, yet he was trapped at his side and captured in his branches. The tangle surrounded him in a rough and firm hug. Namor leaned further into Groot’s side as drowsiness caught up to him. The earlier fight and continued use of his powers had taken their toll. Groot’s deep voice was the last thing he heard as he was lulled into a deep sleep. 

Namor doesn’t remember the last time he slept so well.

Notes:

I had to rewrite half of this because it didn’t save. Very demotivating and took forever.

I know Namor’s telepathy is for Atlantans and sea creatures but I wanted to make this interaction more meaningful. This felt like the best way to do that. Kinda OOC but I like to think Groot would be a rambler since he's usually limited to three words.

I pray Netease gives them a team up in a later season. Namor as the anchor and maybe Groot gets more health from walls or a new seed bomb that’s stuns enemies the same way Namor’s ult does. Pretty please Netease.

Maybe Sue Storm or Luna next? Sue would be platonic and absolutely not creepy.

Chapter 4: Susan and Namor Catch-up

Summary:

Susan and Namor find a moment to catch up during the mess of vampires in New York. It’s always good to have a friend around.

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Eternal night overtaking New York was quite unforeseen. The entire city was brought to panic at the bats and vampires invaded. Dracula had brought upon a nightmare, one many were tirelessly preventing the spread of.

Namor was no different. He had just accompanied a convoy fitted with H.E.R.B.I.E to the Avengers tower. Now he sat atop the Baxter Building, the new home base for local heroes as they worked to end the entanglement. He needed a break.

The Baxter Building was never somewhere Namor was welcome. Too many bad run-ins with the Fantastic 4 left a less than positive impression. It didn’t help that they all believed Namor was head over heels for Susan. Sure he found her attractive and strength was always appealing to him, but marriage was a sacred vow that Namor had no interest in disturbing. He had felt the same way about his previous wives. 

So he gazed down at the chaos from above. Swarming bats and distant shrill screeches reigned from below. Namor hoped this would be over soon. The idea of this mess invading the deep seas left him uneasy.

”So this is where you were. Though I can’t really blame you, Ben was glaring daggers. I hope you can forgive him for that. Y’know how he is.”

The wonder that was the Invisible Woman revealed herself as she walked through the door. She likely snuck up here to avoid any conflict. 

”Nothing new from him. I cannot find myself angry at such a display of devotion and care. And in some ways, I feel the two of us are alike. I have no ill will toward him.”

Sue smiled at that. Even if Ben wouldn’t admit it, him and Namor both struggled to find belonging. They have been seen as monsters. Sometimes she wished Ben would sit and talk with him. 

Susan walked over and took a seat next to Namor. Their legs dangled off the building as they gazed downwards at the chaos. They both chose to ignore it. It’s exhausting hearing about the constant need to act and save in such a desperate situation. Even heroes need a break.

“I’m glad you feel that way. But you should come down, I think Franklin wants to talk to you. And Val probably has a load of questions as well.”

Franklin, the son of Susan and Reed, and a powerful mutant. His potential was above anything Namor had ever seen, yet he hadn’t had much interactions with mutants. Namor was a rare opportunity where he could learn more about his people and places like Krakoa.

Valeria, the younger daughter of the two, was a complicated girl. Named by Victor and referring to him and “Uncle Doom”, Valeria was truly a marvel of a girl. Her intellect mirrored her father’s but came along with a morbid curiosity that couldn’t have come from anyone but Victor. She always asked about her Uncle Doom when talking to Namor.

Namor was quite fond of both children.

“How long will I get to talk to them before Richards is stretched around my neck?”

“Reed is bickering with Stark at the moment. Any downtime the team has is just more time for him to tinker away.”

Susan sighed. She understood the severity of the situation they were in, but she still wished her husband would take a moment off.

“I will never retract my ideas about what a fool he is Susan. Even when we aren’t in a crisis it seems that man finds every excuse to be elsewhere. It’s insufferable. Especially when you are such an exceptional person Susan.”

“Still on with this huh? You only really see Reed when he’s like this. There is so much more to him. Reed is a fantastic father and has always been good to me. Trust me, there is no way I could be happier with such an amazing husband. These few days don’t define our relationship.”

Susan had more of a love struck look in her eyes now. What a lucky man Namor thought. He knew he was being biased and harsh. Reed was a super genius who still had great care for his family. That doesn’t mean Namor didn’t find him frustrating.

”He is aggravating to me Susan. I cannot help it. After all… I to used to have feelings for you as well.”

Namor saying this aloud didn’t bother Susan. She knew Namor didn’t feel that way about her now and his small crush was much more than just her beauty.

“You would make a great queen. I don’t think any different about that now. You have unmatched power and force fields that could’ve protected my kingdom from any threat. And your compassion and empathy is unrelenting. You find sympathy and care for everything and everyone, yet you won’t hesitate to fight when what you care for is threatened. I know the seas would be safer than ever with your presence.”

”Quite the confession Namor… but I don’t think I’d be as good as you think at ruling. Sometimes I don’t even think I’m worthy of being a mother let alone ruling the entire ocean. But I can’t help but admire the way you think. It’s so noble and really does reflect your position.”

Namor stared at her questioningly. The way he thinks about her?

”I mean… your love for me was never about fulfilling your own desire Namor. To me, it seems like you’re only thinking about your kingdom. How I can protect and provide for your people. It’s really endearing to hear about.”

”That is just my duty as a king to find a wife who can be a benefit to the kingdom. It’s a rulers job to serve and protect its citizens.”

Susan thought Namor was much kinder than many were lead to believe. He was a passionate lover and fighter for what he cared about. Susan didn’t know about herself as a ruler, but she knew Namor was meant for such a role.

The two sat and talked until the cold finally got to Susan. They both enjoyed their time greatly, quiet laughter and stories flowed between the two. Forgetting the complete mess around them and they got absorbed into their own world. 

They got up and headed inside. Namor didn’t know where but if he had to guess, it be the living room where everyone else was. 

“Thank for this Namor, even when we fix all of this I hope we’ll get to meet up sooner. It’s nice to talk to you.“

”I couldn’t agree more Susan. You may reach me anytime and I’ll be happy to see you.”

Their talking continued all the way to the living room. Ben and Johnny were sitting there watching some show. Susan and Namor sat down on one of the sofas side by side. Susan poured them drinks. Namor could feel Ben’s glare and Johnny’s side eye but couldn’t care much. He and Susan would enjoy their night of catch-up.

They talked until their eyes couldn’t stay open. But they both agreed that after tomorrow’s mission, they would set aside time for another night to share their thoughts, experiences, stories and whatever else came to mind. Having a friend around made this so much easier.

 

Notes:

No perverse Namor here.

I lobe these two as friends who might come to each other for advice or even for fun stories to tell. Still don’t think I executed it the best and the convos still flow weirdly to me. I might rewrite if I see improvement in my writing.

I think the romantic relationship between these two in comics ruins both characters. A devoted wife and mother becomes infatuated with a girlish crush and betrays her husband. It goes against Susan’s character so much. Namor becomes a complete creep and monster unrecognizable to his own comics. I hate that this version of him has been the one to gain the most notoriety.

Working on Luna Snow now and I’m trying to incorporate more male characters. Ive been waffling over ideas for Bucky and Namor for a while now.

Chapter 5: Namor Comforts Luna (and then they jump a guy)

Summary:

Luna is freaking out over the pressure on her shoulders as she is the only support on the next mission. Namor comforts her. They then jump a Vampiric, Wakandan king.

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

The Sanctum Sanctorum was filled with unease. Tension bleeding from each of the members as they sat in the disheveled living room. All but one was with them. Mantis.

She was in a guest bedroom unable to fight due to severe injuries. Wong was dutifully tending to her. Replacing bandages on the terribly large gash on her stomach that modeled a ferocious beast’s claws. She would heal, Strange’s magic would even accelerate the process, but it still wasn’t a good idea to have her out in the field again. 

The team had been out searching for the missing Wakandan King: T’Challa. Instead they encountered a savage, bloodthirsty man in a crazed state. In Mantis’s attempt to sleep the lost King, she was hurt and T’Challa had fled the scene.

Now the team was stuck in a strenuous position. They had no time to spare and they had to get the king back to his senses before it was too late. Other heroes had more radical approaches to the vampires. If they encountered T’Challa, there is little chance he would survive. 

Strange broke the silence with his tired yet commanding voice.

“As difficult as it is to continue without Mantis… We must. Time is of the essence on this matter and I'm afraid King T’Challa will stray too far away from where we saw him earlier.”

It was an easily agreeable statement. This search had already been drawn out too long and Wakanda was eager for the arrival of their King. But this did come with risks.

”As much as I want to get back out there soon, Mantis was crucial to our support. She granted us easy attack opportunities and enabled our emotions to help us fight better. Without her presence is really safe to only go out with 5 of us?” 

Doctor Banner tinkered away at his gamma blaster at the gears turned in his head. Was it really safe to go out when they had to deal with an onslaught of vampires, bats, and a king turned monster?

“Well, we’d need to know how our other friend supporting us feels don’t we?”

Wanda’s voice brought Luna to attention. The pop star had been oddly quiet since Mantis’s injury. She was bubbly and confident and always a sign of hope and joy. It was out of character.

Namor liked Luna. She was one of the better heroes he was introduced to. Her ice powers felt like a cold chill flowing down Namor as all his injuries disappeared. It reminded him of diving into the oceans after too much time on land. Washing away all the filth and being completely reborn into his element. 

Yet now the ever cheerful idol sat with her hands clenched on her knees. She was hunched over slightly and far too stiff. Luna was nervous, that much Namor could tell.

”I think we should go back out. It will be okay guys, trust me I’ve never had a problem before— no chance I’ll have one now! After all I’ve been on stages much scarier than this one!”

Her entire persona changed in an attempt to assure the rest of the team. Her posture shot up and her hands made all sorts of energetic motions.

“Luna dear, are you sure you’ll be okay? I understand this is a stressful moment for you. You do not need assure us here. This is a serious moment, if don’t think you can handle it, I’m sure we can call in someone else to help.” 

Wandas assurance did nothing to deter Luna. She promised to have the teams back profusely during the conversation. 

“— and we can’t just leave King T’Challa out there anyways. Dr. Strange just said so. It will be fine, I promise to perform to my absolute best for you guys!”

Namor guessed her constant insistence was effective or everyone was too tired to argue.

”Very well. We will set out tomorrow. There have been rooms prepared for you all. Get some rest.”

Strange had directed his eyes to Luna at that last part, still uneasy about leaving it up to her. Yet heroes don’t get to be picky in situations like this, you just have to keep moving.

Everyone left to go take their time of peace (except Banner who seemed perfectly fine to spend all night tinkering on the floor). Namor noticed Luna shuffled to her room rather quickly. Was everyone just choosing to ignore the girls frazzled state?

By the end of the night everyone had eaten (curtesy of Namor knowing how to deal with the Eldritch octopus horror in Strange’s fridge) and retired. Namor enjoyed his night with his team. Best believe most of the conversations over dinner were pointed judgments of the sorcerer’s kitchen situation. Yet he could still feel Luna’s uneasy energy. She could muster up smiles and even laughed over dinner, but Namor could tell she wasn’t fine.

At some point everyone had gone to sleep. It was an oddly peaceful night considering the vampiric invasion. Yet Namor awoke to sounds of labored breathing due to his sensitive hearing. It was coming from downstairs. He left his room and found his way back to the kitchen, where the source of the sound was hunched over a counter.

Shaky hands, heavy breathing with every other inhale marked by a hitched breath, her seemingly nauseous state. Luna was having a panic attack.

Namor moved over to Luna’s side immediately. Call it an instinct but he had seen so many happen before. Soldiers during the war were prone to getting them. He slowly rested a hand on her back causing a suddenly jolt. He could feel how hot she was. Namor’s cold hands were a soothing contrast.

”Im going to sit you down, is that okay?”

Luna’s eyes darted to him, she nodded. Namor maneuvered get to the ground, her back laying against the counter. Tears were pooling at the side of her eyes and she was now hiccuping between breaths. Her hands had spots of iced over skin on the them.

“Seol, try to focus on me. Focus on my voice. You in the Sanctorum now. You’re having a panic attack.”

Namor spoke slowly and quietly. He kept her eyes on him and made sure she understood every word. He switched to her real name to try and ground her further.

”Everything will be just fine. This will pass. Focus on me, focus on breathing.” 

Seol kept her eyes on him and listened to his soothing voice. Her hand moved to grab onto his bicep, gripping it tightly and digging her perfect nails into his tough skin. It was a way to ground herself.

Little by little Luna calmed down. Her breathing evened out and her grip loosened but it was still present. 

The two sat in silence for a moment. Seol stared at the ground as she gathered her thoughts together. Namor was patient with her. They would talk, but only if she was ready  and willing.

”I’m sorry… I— I don’t know what I’m doing. I thought I’d be okay… but the more I think about it the worse it gets. I just keep thinking: what if someone gets hurt and I can’t get to them? What if I’m focusing on someone else? What if—“

”Stop it.”

Namor cut off her rambling. That kind of talk would only serve to make her more miserable. He could understand the worries though. As far as Namor knew this girl was hardly into her 20s. And while she had done her fair share of heroic deeds, nothing compared to scope of saving an entire multiverse from collapsing onto itself. 

“I can promise you that tomorrow will be just fine. Namor shall talk to everyone and make it so. No one will step out of line.”

“Can you do that? I don’t want to make it harder for everyone to work around me. I should be the one supporting them, not the other way around.”

”Child… we are a team. We must work together and adapt to different cases together. If they refuse to adapt then they are better of dead with such a foolish mindset. We all help each other. It is a team for a reason.”

“Thank you Namor, this really means a lot to me. I honestly don’t know if I could’ve gone out tomorrow.”

They sit there for a little longer with each other until they become aware of the time. It takes more than 5 hours of rest to function in the field most of the time. They both got up from the floor and headed to their rooms once again but not before Namor added one last thing.

”Any problems and you will seek me out child, is that understood? Whether tonight or tomorrow, Namor will lend you his support.”

Luna couldn’t help but smile at this. It was pretty reassuring to hear the king of the seas offer his support. And despite her earlier panic, sleep came rather easily to her.

The next day everyone was up and readying themselves. However the mood was different all around. Luna had a new and optimistic attitude that was much better than how she was yesterday. She was also spending more of her morning near Namor rambling on about anything she could think of. 

As they had a final briefing before they left, Namor butted in at the last moment.

”Keep yourselves where she can see you. Don’t and you’re dead.”

He gestured back to Luna as he spoke. The room was silent with warning but no disagreement or protest was heard. Today, they knew their fight would have to revolve around where Luna was positioned.

“Well then, let’s go. We’ve got a king to catch.”

With that they left the Sanctorum and headed to the last place they saw of Wakandan King. The streets were still swarmed with bats and straggling vampires while the sky still took on a blood red color reflecting the chaos below.

But as they trekked through the city, Namor and Hulk could tell something was off. Their hearing alerted them. Namor moved back closer Luna and Hulk retuned to Wanda and Strange to protect them. Suddenly, a blur shot across Namor’s vision. There was no mistaking who it was though. 

T’Challa disappeared into the nearest alley and then came back just as fast, this time aimed at Luna. But Namor had his monstros deployed just as quickly. The blood thirsty king was driven off as quickly as he showed up. Thank goodness for the gamma boosted monstro. 

“Damn it. This isn’t going to work. He’s too fast, we need to slow him down.”

Strange, always the voice of reason. It was true though. It would be almost impossible to capture the King with his boosted speed now thanks to the vampiric powers he acquired.

”Hulk can hear the panther. Annoying! Growling and scratching everywhere!”

”I too can hear him. Namor’s senses never lie. We can track him, but to catch him is something else Doctor.”

”If we want to keep him still Stephen and I can do that well. A well placed dark seal from my chaos magic will do the trick.”

”That’s good… but it won’t be long enough. He’ll still slip out of our grasp. I can use my Eye of Agamotto but the most I can give us is a few seconds. This is quite the conundrum”

”Oh! I’ll just freeze him. Like— from the legs down and his arms. If I use enough he probably won’t break free. Even then we can probably knock him out by that point, right?”

“Namor would be happy to put that fool back in his place.”

Several warning looks descended upon Namor for that comment. However the submariner’s grin never left. He’s probably wanted to do this for a while.

”I’m going to ignore that Namor and put my trust into you. Let’s not make war with an Intergalactic Empire now. But anyways— we’ll need someone to act as bait. To lure him out for us to act.”

The moment the Sorcerer Supreme said that everyone turned to the Hulk. While the green giant wasn’t bait material there was a very scrawny man in all of that green muscle.

The Hulk immediately started grumbling. But cohering of both Dr. Banner and the Hulk eventually got them on board. Not without a couple gamma related threats directed at each of them.

”I swear to god, you people are insufferable and if a single one of those bloody claws touches me ill—“

“Anyways now that we have the good doctor on board, let’s get to work shall we?”

With that the team got to work. Namor was able to pinpoint the general location of T’Challa. Then Bruce found himself in the center of an open road. The rest of the crew was posted on top of various rooftops. All it took was a signal from Strange and Dr. Banner started making a ruckus.

Namor could hear the growling and hissing getting closer at an alarming rate. He signaled to Wanda to get ready. Her magic started to flow from her hands and she entered a state of concentration. Then a flash of reds and purples came flying forward straight for Bruce’s face.

Wanda’s seal stopped it just in time. A crack heard in air as the king was stopped for a mere second. But it was just enough for Dr. Strange to get close enough. He whispered under his breath.

”By the Eye of Agamotto!”

While the king seemed to be standing still to everyone else, Strange saw of green image behind of the startled, snarling king.

Lina took this as her chance for the freeze the ground surround the Vampiric King and his limbs. Now even if he broke free from the ice, he’d simply slide on the ground. That seemed to be all that Namor needed to see before he flew in to deliver a raw, jaw breaking punch to the kings face right as he reentered his own body. He slid right across the ice into a nearby wall. 

“Namor! What the hell! He’s a king, maybe you be a bit more gentle! We can’t send him back with a jacked up face.”

Dr. Banner admonished him but it all seemed to fall on deaf ears. Namor’s grin became even bigger and his sharp teeth were in full display. It’s obvious he’s been wanting to do that for a very long time. No dignity or grace, just pure hatred.

”He has never treated Namor with respect deserving of a king, so why should I do such a thing for him.”

Namor walked over to the knocked out Emperor of Wakanda and threw him over his shoulder without a care.

“Now shall we head back?”

At this point no one argued. If they were going to get on Namor’s case, better to do it in the Sanctum. Especially now that Wong had two people to nurse.

The team walked back with small conversation while taking down the bats that got too close. Luna was trailing behind. Call it instinct for always feeling like she needs to keep an eye on everyone. But Namor slowed his pace to be right beside her, still with T’Challa on his shoulder.

”I guess everything did work out. I really did make a big deal over nothing… Sorry I bothered you with all that Namor.”

Luna looked down at the ground, feeling more embarrassed than ever. She was supposed to be a strong superhero but still felt like a child next to these other amazing people. It was like working with legends.

”Nonsense child. Showing emotions should never be embarrassing. Even if it may seem like we’re all calm and organized over this matter, there are things eating each of us from the inside. Even the dear Doctor Strange over there is beating himself up over losing the pages of the Darkold. But we shouldn’t let these things get the best of us— we have to move forward for what we protect. That is perhaps the most valuable quality of our allies over there.”

”Well, then I guess I at least have someone to talk to now when things are too much.”

Luna gazed up at the Sea king and her tone took on a more questing edge to it. It warmed Namor knowing this girl was able to find solace in him. It was nice that someone would willing seek him out for something other than muscle and power.

”I would be honored to hear from you more often my dear.”

A faint, rosy smile appeared on Luna’s face.

“Wait a second, do you like have a phone or something? So I can— like talk to you.”

“… a what?”

The next few days were then spent finding and  sorta, kinda, maybe, robbing an Apple Store to get Namor a phone and a water proof case.  It was difficult to explain the concept to Namor but it was worth it in the end. 

Now, Luna would always have someone by her side, through good and bad, Namor would always have her back.

 

 

 

Notes:

Had a game as a solo Luna in comp because the other support disconnected. Stressed me out and we barely won because they reconnected. Made me think about how Luna would feel in this scenario.

Been thinking about this for far too long and sorry for so much procrastination. I’ve been playing too much marvel rivals. Also kinda disappointed with season 3 battle pass. Thought we’d get comic Phoenix Force Namor and instead it’s another lazy body suit and the same damn trident. Still no good skin and still no legendary for my boy. But I’m hyped for Loki’s swimsuit skin.

Perhaps Bucky will be next. I’ve got a good cat related idea. Now boosted by the Alpine keychain.

Chapter 6: Jeff is a Monster and Namor Loves Him

Summary:

Jeff and Namor are in waters off the shore of Krakoa having a wonderful time. When something tries to interrupt, Jeff is quick to handle it (to the horror of many others and the delight of Namor).

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Time off for heroes thrown into the throes of multiversal chaos was spent well. When you had no idea when the next big problem was showing up, it was best to use the time you could in whatever way was best. For some this was rigorous training, others to study the wonders of the phenomenon entangling the time stream, and others… to try and forget all the mess, even if only for an hour or so.

That last option was occupied by a number of heroes, some of better moral standing than others. Either way, after the last debacle with Knull, rest was well deserved. So many had coincidentally ended up at the shores of Krakoa together.

On the beach, a game of volleyball was being held. Squirrel Girl and The Thong (Luna said it leading to many humorous moments) were on one team. Thor and Psylocke on the other side. Loki lounged on a chair as he basked in the suns warm rays. His clones, on the other hand, were posted around the makeshift court to play ref with Tippy Toe and occasionally bother Thor.

Out in the waters were another group. Luna Snow was splayed out beautifully on a very on-brand surfboard listening to her favorite tunes. The waters around her rippled as rocket zoomed by on his newly built jet ski with Amazing Baby fashioned on his water jet pack. They both looked to be having the time of their lives. Under the two in the depths of the ocean were Namor and Jeff. Both swimming through the waters at unfathomable speeds. Jeff zipped around hunting fish and presenting them to Namor to be showered with praises before devouring them. Namor was happy to watch the small hunter.

The two had grown close over their time together, several instances where they met on the field of battle. Both of land and sea heritage, the most stark contrast being that one was loved and the other hated more or less. But they harbored a connection either way. It was comforting to know there is someone out there just like you in a way. To know you’re never truly alone.

But I guess you never really alone on Krakoa, especially when your mind can be invaded at any moment. Emma broadcasted a message through each of their heads.

“Listen up, unusual reading are starting to appear out there, in the deeper waters. Tony seems to think something is coming. Could be something from another timeline. Take care of it, I don’t want that thing near Krakoa.”

Just as Emma’s message finished, Namor could feel distress wavering from deeper waters. Denizens of the deep sea were fleeing and hiding from the newfound threat. A disturbing aura was evident.

Namor and Jeff emerged from the waters. Luna was already gazing out at the sea with a worried expression. Thor came flying in with his hammer in tow now. Rocket followed behind, ditching the jet ski for his jet pack and gun. Amazing Baby was back on the beach for safety.

Loki, Doreen, Sai, and Ben were back in the beach as well. If something went wrong, they’d be quick to get help or notify Emma. Otherwise they just be a burden if they came to battle. Except for Loki who just seemed to lack interest or care for any of this.

“Can’t even a get a flarkin’ moment off. One damn day, all I’m askin’ for.”

Rocket grumbled, not ready to be back in action so soon.

“Surely you jest Rocketeer! An unknown beast has found its way and we take on the role of protectors. There is great glory to be won here my friends!”

Thor was as optimistic as ever, still stuck in Asgardian customs over genuine worry. Though being god does lend quite a large amount of credibility to his lack of worry.

“I don’t know guys… Emma was pretty serious about this. Whatever she saw must’ve been pretty scary. Do you see anything Namor?”

Luna’s interjection turned everyone’s gaze over to the king. He had a serious look.

“I can hear them, my subjects, they call out for help. The ocean is in distress.”

Jeff made quiet mrrrs of agreement. They had a worried tone to them.

Namor flew out of the water towards the source. Everyone took this as queue to follow behind. As they traveled out further the waters got more rough. If Luna didn’t have her ice powers she’d have been buried by waves. Winds grew stronger around them and suddenly Namor stopped.

In front of the group a giant mass appeared. Rising out of waves was an ocean horror, one giant all-seeing eye and a tangle of tentacles that made the true body of the creature unidentifiable. It slithered and coiled in the waters causing destruction to the habitat below. Suddenly one of the tentacles shot up out the water like a geyser at the group. A swift hit from Thor’s hammer sent tangy electricity through the monster. Shrill screeches muffled by the waves permeated their ears.

“We must act now friends! There is no time to cower, there is a beast to slay!”

Thor sounded all too excited for just finishing a battle on Klyntar not even a week ago. But Namor’s trident shot out of the water as well, its eye starting directly at the monsters, not at all intimidated with such a capable wielder. Rockets gun was starting to warm up and Luna stood upon her surfboard and ice froze around her hand. But before any of them could go on an offense against the beast Jeff sprung out of the water onto the surfboard.

“Mrrrrrr! Mrawwww! Mrrff.”

The tiny land shark proudly proclaimed something only Rocket and Namor could understand.

“What are you flarkin’ talkin’ about? Takin’ the thing on by yourself? You hearin’ this Namor?”

Namor simply looked down Jeff. A moment of silence before he smiled at him. The others might not have seen it before, but Namor knew Jeff was more than capable of taking down this monster. This was Jeff proving he was more than a cute little shark, he was a fighter who would show it to everyone.

“Very well little one, you shall take this beast on all on your lonesome. We all place our trust in you. Everyone! Let us retreat for the moment. It would be dangerously to stay to close.”

There were of course protests to this decision. Thor especially disappointed. They all didn’t realize Jeff’s true power. But Namor’s confidence in the tiny land shark was enough to keep them back.

Jeff gave on last toothy grin at Namor before diving into the water. Then there was silence. Nothing happened. The monster seemed confused at this suddenly retreat. But suddenly more ripples came from the water. Vibrations large and intense traveled to the surface. The creature seemed confused and flailed its tentacles around rapidly, feeling for the source. But it was all for naught. It happens so quickly. It was honestly terrifying.

A giant shark with arms and legs. A huge beady black eye, looking almost soulless to anyone who didn’t know the horror in front of them. Blood began to soak and seep out of its mouth. The tentacle monster was gripped between the giant sharks jaws. A sickeningly loud crunch rang through the air. Leaving everyone frozen besides Namor who looked upon the supersized Jeff with a maniacal grin.  The water around the shark turned into a purplish brown. A murky testament to the monster slain.

Everyone looked on in horror.

A giant shark flew out of the water and was now munching on the sea monster. It really was quite horrific.

But just as quickly as the monster appeared, it left. A transformation took Jeff from a giant right back to his small huggable self. Now Jeff was high in the sky soaring downwards to the water. That was before Namor flew up to catch the little one, cradling him gently in his arms and wiping the remaining blood and gore from his face as they fell towards the ocean.

“Oh poppet, the most precious creature Namor has ever seen. You are truly a wonder.”

A loving tone with absolute adoration was present and well received. Jeff nuzzled himself closer to Namor’s neck as his short tail curled around his side. They both fell gracefully back into the water. They re-emerged clean from the monsters blood and muck, as it washed away with the current.

The rest of the heroes came over utterly flabbergasted at the display of power and might from the little land shark. As they headed back to shore the conversation focused on how Namor found out and if there was any other power the little one had. It was truly a shock but a welcome one. Now Jeff knew no one would be worried for him in battle, they could see that almost no one stood a chance.

Namor simply laughed at everyone’s surprise. He honestly couldn’t wait until they found out about Jeff’s incident with the infinity stones. But until then, Jeff and Namor kept quiet about their little adventures. They went back into the deep waters of the ocean just like before to spend their time dancing and playing in the waves. And when the day was bleeding into night and beautiful sunset was overlooking Krakoa, Jeff went right back into Namor’s arms as they looked over it together.

“Y’now poppet, you are welcome anytime to my kingdom, no matter if you want to visit or are in need my doors are always open for you.”

Namor’s voice was calm as slow as his head went to lean against Jeff.

“Mrrrr…”

A tired sound of acknowledgement came from the shark, tuckered out from playing all day.

Luna came out to collect them before the sun fully went down and while there was still foods on the table, but they never left each other for the rest of the night.

Notes:

Summer lineup will probably be out by the time I finish this but I got so inspired by all the skins that any other idea had to take a backseat. Thought it would be a good way to get some moments of Jeff and Namor in here. I love these two together and I can’t believe I don’t see more of it around, especially with the one wholesome interaction they have. But I guess every interaction Jeff has is wholesome.

I headcannon that Jeff is the Godzilla of the ocean. He transforms and it’s terrifying. Not cute, an eldritch horror had come upon us and were all doomed. And Namor loves him to pieces for it.

Also poppet is a synonym of sorts for a darling child or sweetheart that I thought was cute. My mom calls me that and it fit weirdly well in the context of Namor. I like to think that Namor was called poppet by Fen because she learned it from Leonard and he was a British sailor. Now namor continues to use it.

Chapter 7: Namor Saves Bucky (and Steve Saves them)

Summary:

Bucky has been recaptured by Hydra and Namor goes to save him. They run into troubles along the way but it all works out in the end.

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

The Timestream Entanglement came quick. Sudden mess, disaster as worlds collided and tore from each other. All at the hands of Victor Von Doom. Too stubborn and proud to realize that this could turn into something much bigger than even himself. The Spider Islands in 2099. The Yggdrasil takeover. Intergalactic Wakanda. Klyntar. Hydra. Chronovium and its endless potential.

Namor stood in front of the base. Covert, dressed in a black Hydra uniform with a duffel bag. His ears were covered along with his wings. Nothing out of the ordinary, trying his best to conform to stale tastes of Hydra. Even his hair was dyed a flat black. A small presence ruffling around within the bag. Namor put his hand on it to calm the creature within.

Steve wasn’t here now to rescue him. Laid to rest after so many years of service during a mission with the Avengers. He deserved it, Steve was a good man, perhaps even one of the best the surface had to offer. Only Namor remained of the original Invaders crew after the Entanglement started, and after Bucky went missing, the king wasn’t going to sit by idly. So he walked up to the base. Following the flock of fools in front of him.

Namor got in without so much as a hitch. But he felt something off as soon as he entered. A dark swirling energy that permeated every cursed wall of the complex. But now wasn’t the time, someone needed to be saved. Following the orders barked at him. Analyzing the cold and bleak surrounds. Dark metals and stone statues with words akin to worship and prophecy. People of higher ranks, in military uniforms, point their guns and yelling to guide the new recruits. All needed to help achieve their new and most likely sinister goals with the Timestream Entanglement. But Namor would put a stop to it later, now he had someone to find.

Slipping away quietly, Namor scoured through corridors. Tipping his military cap and saluting to those of higher ranks. Looking for the nearest elevator or stairs to descend. Finally down another turn of a winding hallway he saw the sign for a staircase right next to directory. All in German, Namor was well versed though. Seems he would be descending looking at the ominous word. Containment.

The stairs were long, the bottom an endless pit. Namor looked around, trying to hear if anyone was coming. Quickly he slipped his off his shoes and socks, rolling up the bottoms of his pants and suddenly leaping from the railing. He held the duffel bag close, cradling it in his arms as he fell. The staircase becoming a grey blur as Namor dived down to the lowest point of the building. Landing with grace, his wings cushioning the fall.

“You all right in there little one?”

A small meow could be heard. Alpine was always a fighter, a fierce foe when it came to her daddy. This was nothing for the beauty in white.

After exiting the staircase there was only one hallway leading to large double doors. He raised his arm high, calling for his trident. It would take a moment, flying high from the nearest waters to the King’s capable hands. But the weapon would inevitably make it at some point. Otherwise, there was no time for subtlety now.

Bursting into the containment room, the Hydra soldiers immediately raised their arms. Flashing red emergency lights now blaring. Out came the mariner at full speed, smashing into the nearest soldier with vigor and hatred. Picking up the rifle, he smirked. Hydra obviously wasn’t prepared for his visit. Bullets ricocheted off his tough skin. Then the intercom came on, loud and alarmed, panic audible in the man’s voice.

“There has been an infiltration, the Sub-Mariner has infiltrated the base. All armed Hydra soldiers retreat back to containment! I repeat, all soldiers will fall back to containment. Do not let the mariner reach the soldier!”

Namor could hear the steps of more soldiers coming down, but his focus was towards one of the tanks, “CANARY”. That’s the one. Namor clutched the duffle bag close and charged into the crowd of soldiers surrounding the tank. His fists moved with fury and speed, too quick for the Hydra agents to react. Some pulled out electric batons, trying to stun the mariner, but he brushed them off. He was relentless and unbothered by any attack.

Soon more soldiers entered through the now broken doorway. But before they could even raise their arms, the Trident of Neptune came soaring in, knocking down the agents. Right into Namor’s hands, waters swirled around the king, picking up his foes and sending them flying. The eye of the trident locking into the next enemy in seconds, spelling their doom as the trident pierced through armor. By the time Namor was done, bodies were strewn across the floor, not a single drop of mercy granted to these monsters.

With a final slash, Namor opened the tank containing the Winter Soldier. Out he fell, onto the floor in all his naked glory. Yet there was something wrong with him, Namor could feel the eldritch energy of his arm. Or what should’ve been his arm, now a tangle of writhing tentacles attached to his shoulder. Hydra. Always finding a way to mess him up more. But now what not the time, they had to leave.

“Bucky. Get up. We have to leave, I know you can hear me. Get up or I will drag you of here.”

Namor took off the Hydra uniform he was wearing. Throwing it to the ground near the soldier, their sizes were close enough. Namor back to his almost naked glory save for a pair of black boxer shorts. Nothing out of the ordinary for the mariner.

“Geez, can’t be any nicer. Feel like I just crawled from hell, fishface.”

”Not far from it Barnes.”

There he was, regaining his consciousness, the soldier sat up. Namor looked down at him, his face barely revealing the feeling of relief looking at the alive and not reprogrammed assassin. Still Bucky. And hearing the his voice was all Alpine needed to hop out of the opening in the duffle bag. Right over to her daddy.

“What the— Namor you brought Alpine here? What were you thinking!”

“Your apartment was compromised, as well as razed to the ground. Was I supposed to leave her to settle for garbage in the streets?”

Namor’s condescending voice, knowing Bucky’s answer. He cared too much for Alpine to see her like that, a dirty fur coat and far too skinny. But at Namor’s side she was served the finest fish and groomed well. Despite his rocky start with Alpine chewing at his wings, the two came to an understanding somehow. All Bucky remembers is Namor avoiding her like the plague at the start of the night, but by the end she was curled around his neck finding sleep in his broad shoulders.

Bucky finally dressed, taking one of the guns with him, it wasn’t anything like his usual Roterstern, but it would do. Alpine hopped onto his shoulder gracefully. They could hear more of the soldiers on their way down. The fight wasn’t over.

“Hey, we can’t leave yet. Something big is happening here Namor, and I know you can feel it too.”

Namor sighed, already expecting this. When he walked in and felt that disturbing sensation, the feeling of something that would spell doom for all. Of course Bucky would want to put a stop to it now.

“Very well, but if anything goes wrong we’re leaving.”

“Got it… and thanks Namor.”

They headed out of the containment room. Going through the maze of Hydra’s corridors and fighting through masses of agents. Working together like a well oiled machine, one who had been through fights like this before. It was almost nostalgic, but not in a good way. It’s never good when Hydra resurfaces.

They found themselves on a catwalk of sorts on the side of building, snow blazing around them as they moved. Doing their best to avoid more needless fighting. A small moment of peace before they’d get to the real problem in the walls of this monstrosity.

“Y’now I never expected you to be the one to save me. Didn’t know if the high and mighty Namor would bother, thought someone else would come.”

“I was a soldier before I was a king.”

“And you were a prince before you were a soldier. And with how cold you were I could never really tell. Never knew if you had a connection with us.”

“If anyone called me half the names you and Thomas did, they would’ve been dead long ago.”

“Hah… it almost doesn’t feel that long ago now does it, the Invaders. Couldn’t say I hated war when it was us.”

“You all taught me many things, I may have hated the nazis with all my heart, but I never did extend that malice towards you all. You were my first human friends after all, and first family among the surface.”

“I think Steve would have been happy to hear that, damn old timer. You guys never did leave off on the best note.”

Namor sighed. When he heard the news of Captain America’s death, the aching feeling of regret filled his heart. They argued too much, both the biggest pain in each other’s asses. But always harboring a loyalty to one another. A respect for the man who went into battle with him. Steve was a good man. That was just the best way to describe him, a good man.

The king was pulled out of his laments when they reentered the building, now in front of large portal. Unstable and pulsing around them. Distorting the room into a dark mess. A side effect of the Timestream Entanglement. But Namor could feel something inside the portal, suddenly surging for Bucky, a large tentacle. But the Winter Soldier was quick, dodging to the side using his new tentacle like arm.

Namor raised his trident to summon waters against the beast who rivaled even Giganto in size. The trident pierced through the tentacles tough skin as Bucky’s shots focused in on the wounds, making them worse. Namor then leapt to the air making a clean cut, severing the writhing black mess from the main mass. They worked through the monster carefully, the creature seemed too motivated by rage to come up with a counter to the two heroes. Finally through the monsters weakened state, Namor summoned a pillar of water, a geyser that shot strait through the portal, pushing the monster back to wherever it was from.

The two looked back at each other. Proud of their quick work of the monster. But it wasn’t long before the same chronovium energy was back again, swirling around the room. On top of that more Hydra lackeys entered. They surrounded the two in what would have been an onslaught of bullets. But before anything could happen another portal opened. Bucky and Namor turning to see a flying disk come out at record speed, the way it bounced and reflected off the Hydra goons a trademark of one man. In all his glory, Captain America appeared. Alive and well, a little shinier than usual in a futuristic getup.

“Well I’ll be damned. At least I don’t feel too bad for missing your funeral old timer.”

“Funny. I wasn’t even invited.”

“Namor, Bucky, good to see you both. But I’m the Steve you remember… it’s a bit of a story.”

“Whatever you say Stevie. Just glad to have you back.”

The three Invaders together again made quick work of their foes. Hydra could never stand a chance as the three worked around each other, calling out enemies and covering each other’s backs. A display of a bond created in the worst moments that held strong. One that, no matter the timeline, was always present. But the soldiers just kept coming, forcing the three to leap back into the portal. The fight against Hydra wasn’t over yet, they’d be back, just with reinforcements next time.

However once they were back to the other side it seemed everyone could hear Namor’s audible groan at the sight of a panther statue and the king in front of him.

“Good to see you to Namor.”

King T’Challa’s voice was stale and displeased, these two weren’t exactly on the best terms now, or ever actually. But before the tension got too unbearable medical staff whisked the three away for checkups, mostly Bucky. And now Steve would also get to learn what happened between the two as Bucky was forced into a hospital bed. How fun.

The trio was left to themselves for the next few days. Spent the time recuperating with one another and sharing stories. After all, the Steve from this timeline was unfrozen not too long ago. Leaving time for quiet conversation. Steve became smitten with Alpine as well. But as the night winded down for the three, Namor pulled out a small gift addressed to Bucky.

“What’s the occasion Namor?”

“Your birthday was mere days away before this catastrophe started was it not? You don’t suppose I’d be one to forget?”

“A gift at this time? Where were you even keeping this?”

Namor simply smirked. Steve eyed the box curiously before shoving it into Bucky’s hands, pushing him to open it. Inside a small keychain was present, handwoven with an expensive looking chain on the end. It was a mini Alpine with a pink ball of yarn, her favorite. Namor and his odd, yet over the top gifts. But Bucky couldn’t deny it was cute and Steve was already fawning over it and asking how Namor had made it.

“This is— I mean it’s cute. But where in the world am I supposed to put this?”

Bucky was starting to laugh at the small gift, thinking about how ridiculous it would look fashioned on the trigger of his gun. But before any brainstorming could occur, Steve hoisted Bucky up and spun him around. The small Alpine keychain was fastened on one of his belt loops on the back of his pants. The three could only laugh at the small cat on the scary Winter Soldier. But it was fun, exactly what they needed. Something to take away the stress of the entanglement, a memory to keep you sane in times like these

And if anyone saw a small cat keychain on the back of Bucky’s belt, they didn’t say anything. Even if it was a tad ridiculous. The Winter Soldier, programmed into a cold blooded killer with merciless techniques and combat abilities. But that was him on the field, and he was still Bucky through it all. Still the kind, fun, lighthearted guy with endless love to give. At least that’s what Namor, Steve, and Alpine would remember him for.

Notes:

I was thinking about cutting this off at 8 chapters but the more I thought about it I couldn’t. Namor is such a fun character to explore and I want to see him have good relationships with other characters within Marvel. This one took me a while due to conflicting ideas and another fic I finished but I’m glad it’s done.

The idea is right from the game’s Bucky lore, A Helping Hand, except instead of Hawkeye being the one to save Bucky it was Namor plus a few other tweaks to the story. It’s not the most original but it conveyed everything I wanted it to unlike the other ideas I had. Also I suggest reading the in game lore for your favorite character or even the gallery cards because they are so well done and give so much insight into the ongoing events. I have an idea for Venom next that came from his Separation Anxiety lore.

Chapter 8: Namor Bonds with the Venom Symbiote

Summary:

The Venom Symbiote and Eddie get separated. Namor helps reunite them.

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

The Venom Symbiote was in pain. Forcefully separated from Eddie by the Queen in Black, Hela. On her quest to expand her power and domain, she allied will Knull creating a battlefield on Klyntar. A battlefield where the Phoenix Force runs rampant for capable hosts and terrorizing other symbiotes. Now it was trapped within a cell, writhing around for a point of escape that wasn’t there. Desperate to reach its injured host. They could still hear each other through the many years they’ve been bonded, but what worried the symbiote was the silence. Was Eddie so injured that he couldn’t wake, couldn’t respond? What a mess, they need to be together again, to be Venom to take down Knull.

But soon the Venom Symbiote felt a familiar heat. The heat of the Phoenix. Bright passion and flame that would usually make it recoil. But it didn’t, a slight cool undertone to the heat that almost made it refreshing. Then the walls encasing the symbiote were smashed. It could hear the crumbling walls and the debris and dust settled on it’s goopy body.

“Hm… you are not like the others. You are different, stronger. And Hela’s energy lingers on you. You fought her.”

A strong voice, flowing and cool despite the dark circumstances. It was not threatening him. Offering to him, someone on his side. The unknown person kneeled down. The flames coming closer but dampening at the symbiote’s wavering. The hive of symbiotes around it coming curiously. They all knew the Venom Symbiote, one who could go toe to toe with a monster like Knull. Then from what the symbiote could tell a hand was extended.

“You are with the blond one. Venom… was it? That’s what you called yourselves? Your partner has gone missing on this accursed planet. Yet you both are our best hope to end this mess. Come along, you want to find your host do you not?”

Eddie… missing. The Venom Symbiote was too weak to fight or scour the prison of Klyntar alone for Eddie. It would most likely get tracked down by Knull again. And this hero was his best bet to get back to his host. The symbiotes tendrils extended out, grappling onto the smooth and somewhat scaly skin of its temporary host. Seeping into pores and rummaging around this new and formidable body. He was tough, had organs that differed from Eddie, not fully human. It was cool but not cold. Feeling smooth and slightly moist from within in a way Eddie wasn’t. The fit wasn’t perfect, no one but Eddie was a perfect host, but it wasn’t awful.

And with the intrusion into the mysterious host’s body came the introduction to his mind. Namor, the symbiote had recalled. Really only remembering him for the tentacle monstros he summons on the field. The creatures with their tentacle appendages were a welcome familiarity, especially in their vicious nature that mirrored their king. It was odd, a conflicted mind, weighty with responsibility and somewhat resistant to the Phoenix’s power within. Feeling burdened by it instead of blessed.

Namor himself was also introduced a symbiote bond. But it wasn’t his own, still feeling the intensity of the Venom Symbiote’s loyalty to its true host, Eddie. The king was isolated from the two’s bond, a safe distance, only able to access what the symbiote allowed. Namor could tell it was a sacred treasure that wasn’t to be touched or intruded upon. He would respect that.

But Namor was given an insight into where Eddie was. The one thing he was allowed to see. Having a host boosted the symbiotes power and abilities greatly allowing the two to track down Eddie. But that didn’t mean it would be easy. It seemed Knull was doing the utmost to keep the two apart. Trapped miles and miles away forcing Namor and the symbiote to trek through savage symbiotes closer to Knull’s territory.

So Namor took flight. A trail of fire behind as he soared through the air. Symbiotes would try and reach for him, quickly deterred by the power of the Phoenix and Namor’s skillful use of his trident. The symbiote spent its time resting within its hosts body. The cold felt nice after such a gruesome battle against Hela. And Namor never called upon its power either. It almost made the symbiote antsy, not being needed to do anything to help.

“Your bond… it is strong. You hardly let me near it. You two must have been through so much together.”

Namor said it offhandedly, more so lost in thought. Thoughts about what the symbiotes were and their power. Knull and his seemingly endless reach, spreading darkness and fear. The symbiote could feel the way Namor’s body was fighting on autopilot, contemplating so many things in his head it was sorta overwhelming for the symbiote. Eddie’s head was quieter, more simple, this one was messy and loud.

“Together… We are Venom. Together we will take down Knull.”

The symbiotes dark and raspy voice was full of determination and so sure of itself. The belief that together the two were truly invincible to any threat. That belief stemming from the true trust and love from the symbiote’s and Eddie’s bond. Yet every thought the mariner had about their bond had a longing behind it. A wish to have a relationship as intimate and treasured as that. Someone who you could trust always and forever. Someone who would never leave you. The more the Venom Symbiote sifted through them the more depressed it got. Memories of loneliness and feelings of grief so overwhelming and tragic. Faces of people that could only be assumed to be long gone without prying too far into the substitute hosts mind.

Venom Symbiote decided it didn’t like this headspace. Instead switching the subject to rid their now shared headspace of the miserable thoughts. If Namor knew the symbiote could see them he didn’t say anything though.

“Why are you out here? So far away from the rest of the heroes. It is dangerous. There is no benefit, just endless amounts of Knull’s spawn this far out.”

Namor had just finished cutting his way through a symbiote dragon. Pausing to stare at the sky and the Venon Symbiote brought up the question. More of these negative emotions entered their headspace, anger included.

“I was looking for Jean Grey, the Phoenix’s true host. I have no want for this power. It is not mine and should never be in the first place. We are not compatible no matter what it thinks.”

The Phoenix Force flared up at the resistance from its host. Making Namor hotter, more uncomfortable to be in. The symbiote cringed and the new and unwelcome feeling. The King retaliated back though, his body pushing against the fire with the cool waves of the ocean. The Symbiote could understand bonds. What made them compatible, if they were compatible, and if they weren’t. It could feel that they were compatible, yet Namor pushed it away with a ferocity. Only allowing its power near because of the oncoming fight with Knull.

Then the memories flooded their shared headspace. Memories of Namor embracing the power of the Phoenix only to get lost in its destructive power. The two bonded left a trail of carnage and death, one that when Namor came to, was appalled at. All the destruction also left a rift between him and allies, a tension that would forever stain any future relations. Having it back was nothing but a reminder of the terrible fate so many were subjected to.

Then suddenly all those emotions and memories stopped. Namor closed himself off. The only thing remaining was the cool essence of the ocean that seemed to always be in Namor’s mind. The king didn’t speak the rest of the way to Eddie, supposed he’d shared enough with a symbiote who wasn’t even his.  They were back to a silent trek, Namor occasionally slaying a symbiote monster being the most action. But the closer they got the more the Venom Symbiote felt his bond grow, flaring at proximity to its true host.

Finally Namor touched ground. Looking at rows of unused prison cells. All of them with squirming symbiotes around. Yet Namor could tell the Venom Symbiote was getting much too eager. Starting to influence Namor’s quickening pace to find Eddie among them— and there he was. Arms glued to a wall through a writhing pile of symbiotes. Unconscious but seeming not too injured. A few scrapes the symbiote could easily heal. He was okay. Eddie was okay. The relief was palpable in their shared headspace. The symbiote couldn’t care if Namor felt it.

Quickly the Venom Symbiote seeped out of Namor, returning to a pile of goop as it slithered between the bars. Namor bent the bars open and set fire to the symbiote mess attaching Eddie to the wall, freeing him. The symbiote found his way back into Eddie’s body, the familiar warmth and shape putting the symbiote at ease. They were Venom again. Whole, aligning perfectly from every tendril to organ, becoming one being of shared love and power. He was so happy to be back with his host.

Venom was quick to repair every piece of marred and scraped skin. Waking up Eddie from within their head. Namor looked on, waiting to see the product of their reunion.

“Eddie. Eddie. We are back Eddie. We got help and made it back to you Eddie. We are Venom again.”

Slowly Eddie opened his eyes, the familiar voice of the one closest to him ringing through his head. Eddie recalled the memories that need in their separation, suddenly glad to know his symbiote partner was back. A smile of relief appeared on his face.

“Nice to have you back bud. But shit my heads killing me, Hela and her damn power.”

Groggy, but awake, Eddie looked over to the one who helped his symbiote. Namor. Venom flooded the memories of the past hours into Eddie’s head. Namor’s help, Namor’s emotions, Namor’s plight. Seems the two had plenty of time to talk. But Eddie got up on his shaky legs, ready to leave this monstrous prison. Choosing not to mention Namor’s clearly unstable mental state.

The three of them left together in silence, other than Eddie’s rather curt and awkward thank you. Heading back to the Milano to hopefully find everyone else. But Venom was quick to sprout from Eddie’s neck, filling the air with mindless babble, jokes, and questions that neither could really respond to.

“Eddie. Eddie… we want to go to Atlantis Eddie. We want to swim Eddie.”

That caught the both off guard. Namor had hardly met the reckless pair and he was not about to have them wreaking havoc in his kingdom. His people would be set into a panic with a black monster roaming around. Eddie was also in agreement. Going into the deep sea where Namor controlled all of the life, including eldritch tentacle monsters didn’t sound to appealing. One wrong move and they might end up in Giganto’s stomach.

“Absolutely not.”

“Nope, no way, sorry but no.”

Namor was firm in his refusal and Eddie didn’t sound very sorry. Venom would have to bring up his great idea again some other time.

They arrived back at the Milano. Eddie went over to rocket, quick to update him and the rest of the crew that he wasn’t dead and eaten by Knull or something. Namor on the other hand, flew away immediately after not seeing Jean. Off to continue his search to return the power he so despised. And while none of them grew particularly attached or would even call either friends, they now had a new understanding of each other. The way they fought in battle, the inner working of their minds. It was easier to fight alongside one another. And that perhaps that was more intimate than any friendship could’ve provided.

Notes:

Wasn’t quite sure what to refer to the symbiote as when separate from Eddie so I called it Venom Symbiote. Also I have no idea if the symbiote can see when its by itself. I’d assume it can’t. Also I refer to Venom as a he when attached to Eddie because I’m pretty sure symbiotes take on the form of their host in all respects. If any of this is wrong please correct me so I can fix it. Also idea from Marvel Rivals lore: Separation Anxiety on Venom’s page if you’d like to read it. (It’s very good.)

Once again, Netease has failed to write Namor in a way that doesn’t purposely make you hate him. The interaction between him and Phoenix in game physically makes me hurt. So I wanted to go more in line with the comics for the Phoenix Force and Namor, with Namor more or less losing himself to the force and hating that lack of control. So he isn’t too happy to have the power back. I mean this is the man who would cry looking at mass graves in WWII, don’t tell me he wouldn’t have been affected by the terrible stuff he did under the influence of the Phoenix. Please Netease, actually read one of his comics for once.

Chapter 9: Peter Quill and Namor’s Love for Music

Summary:

Peter Quill is listening to music before a fight, it makes Namor nostalgic and the two bond over the music.

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Sitting in a makeshift base of operations on Klyntar, Namor sat waiting for the call that it was time to move. Time to capture the next point of importance. This time they were ambushing another group of hero’s who so happened to be opposing them. Hoping to get closer and closer to Knull on the way. It was exhausting and completely miserable. Never knowing if you fighting friends or foes on the field. Knowing that you couldn’t do anything but fight against them, clashing beliefs as fierce as the battles themselves.

Yet some managed to always be optimistic. Keeping a smile and finding joy in the simplest of things. Namor found this in one of his allies for the moment, Star Lord, or rather Peter Quill.   His earbuds were on full volume as he twirled his Element Guns around. Performing a dance of sorts as he mumbled and hummed through the tune. Not at all looking like he was about to head into battle.

Namor’s sensitive ears could pick up on the music, an old tune with such a nostalgic feel. It made him reminisce and look back as he took in the words. It wasn’t as old as some of the stuff Steve played, but it was still from many years ago. Namor could hear the contrast between the song and what played nowadays on radios. But he couldn’t pinpoint from what time the song was from or where he heard it. All he knew is that it reminded him of the Invaders all huddled around whiskey and beer as they shared stories throughout the night, the music a quiet background noise to focus on as the alcohol caught up to you.

With that memory came many more. The first time he was introduced to surface dweller music. Hiding under ships and listening closely to sailor’s radios as they played all kinds of stuff. From sea to sea the small Prince heard so many songs that he couldn’t help but listen to. Following the ships despite his mother’s warning. But when he was caught humming one of their songs, his mother simply smiled. Warm and bright, embracing the music of the people they were supposed to hate. It was a little secret between him and his mother. One of the few fond memories he had of her left.

Then there were times where the Invaders would hop from bar to bar in celebration for a job well done. Namor was often dragged along for these, and never stayed very long when it got too noisy. Soldiers tossing arms over shoulders and singing with their raspy and off pitch voices. Trying to woo women with the romantic lyrics of the songs they seemed so determined to butcher with their awful voices. Yet the ladies would laugh and giggle, falling into soldiers arms for the night before they were forced to leave come morning. Namor was confused by this aspect of humans. The way they interacted, found companions, and spread joy were all so different from the isolation Namor was raised in. After all, his grandfather’s court was unforgiving to Namor’s birth.

But the one he perhaps recalled the most fondly was listening to Betty’s soft voice. She was not the world’s greatest singer, but she was unashamed of her voice as she danced around to the rhythm. Betty was a comfort, a love, and family to Namor in a way very few were. This was one of the few times Namor would sing along as they moved around the kitchen together making whatever kind of exotic seafood Namor had brought for her to try.

Namor didn’t realize he was so lost in thought. A smile appeared as he went thought memories, starting to hum along to next tune Peter was listening to. It was like Namor was no longer there, transported to another time by the music. His own little world of some of the happiest moments. The songs permeating every one of them, filling the background as he recalled the people, places, and words.

However, Peter wasn’t so lost in the music to not pick up on Namor’s humming. His voice was sort of deep and very calming, his accent a unique touch that only amplified his little performance. Perfectly on beat with music, adding a tone a step down from the sound blaring through Star Lord’s ear buds. He couldn’t help but start up a more energetic dance, pulling Namor out of his thoughts to watch as he continued to subconsciously hum the song. Peter’s smile was contagious and brought up the king’s spirit.

The two were lost in the music. Smiling and laughing in a quiet moment of vulnerability for King that Peter probably didn’t even realize. A rare moment of joy shared between the two. Like the Timestream wasn’t crumbling around them. And by the time the song ended the two stared at each other. Peter ending his dance with grand bravado as he twisted his guns and hit a dramatic pose like he was a star on stage.

“Finally, some had taste here! Gee ya know how many people complain about my music, like c’mon, at least you know what’s good around here.”

Peter sounded exasperated as he lamented over people’s dislike of his music. But Namor might have found it obnoxious if it was any other genre. However he chose to keep that to himself.

“You simply recalled some of my old memories,  times Namor remember fondly.”

“Right.. I forget how old some of you guys are. Oh, but if you liked these tunes you should totally come around the Milano some time, I’ve got such a huge collection man!”

Namor chose to ignore the first part as Peter enthusiastically talked of his favorite artists and albums. But before the mariner could respond a voice came over the speaker. The captain, rallying everyone up, it was time to move out. Namor got up from his seat. Peter turning a bit more serious as he put his mask on, giving his guns one more spin for good luck. But before they headed out to the main room, the king said one last thing.

“Perhaps Namor would like to hear more of your music.”

Peter turned, taking his mask off to give Namor a grin. And as they headed off to fight that day, everyone could tell that Namor was in  higher spirits. The music a refreshing feeling. And even Star Lord was in a better than usual mood on the field. Performing his acrobatics wildly and showing off his skill. And on more than one occasion, striking a heroic pose towards Namor, causing the king to roll his eyes and cover for Peter in his foolishness. But their dynamic left their opponents in shambles and their team in greater spirits. And after the battle was over, maybe the two would spend the rest of their day listening and sharing music, Peter was quite curious about Atlantean songs after all, and Namor had plenty of stories to share.

Notes:

I know this one is super short and I also know I didn’t focus a lot on Peter for this being a chapter with him. Idk I just really liked this idea and it was short and sweet. A part of me also thinks this is too far out of character so forgive me for that. Btw what song do you think of when thinking of Star Lord? I think of Starman by David Bowie. And I have no idea what sing Namor would be, too many options.

Chapter 10: Adam Looks into Namor

Summary:

Hydra brings back some bad memories for Namor. Adam can’t help but intrude.

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Namor gazed out at the snow covered mountains. Sitting on the edge of the catwalk in the super soldier factory, the snow and winds tickling his bare skin. Freezing over his lashes and hair making him appear shimmery in the heavy winds. The fight was over. Hydra soldiers passed out and being cuffed and handled by the heroes present. It was a morbid scene. Looking into the tanks and seeing all those men. Perverted by sick sciences and turned into killing machines. All humanity stripped from their being. Namor didn’t want to look at it.

It always made him uncomfortable. Scared him in a way very few things could. Hydra always weaseled their tentacles into things. Even Namor’s own empire at one point. Luckily irreversible damage was prevented but that didn’t mean everything was okay. Nothing was ever okay with Hydra involved.

Namor tightened his hands around his trident. Feeling the need to hold onto something, to ground himself into reality. The reality that this wasn’t WWII again. The memories that flooded Namor’s head alarmed him. Mass graves, starving men, furnaces… he took a deep breath. Suddenly feeling hot despite the extreme cold in front of him. Struggling to fully bring himself back into the moment. The edges of his eyes blurring.

However someone in the vast room of the hydra base seemed to notice the King’s plight. His slight panic. The way he was staring over the edge of the catwalk like he was contemplating jumping off it. Adam approached the disturbed mariner. Standing over the edge of the catwalk with him. His mastery over the souls around him allowed for the warlock to use a level of empathy many couldn’t reach or understand.

It was almost like he was present in Namor’s memories. Feeling the same unpleasant emotions and experiencing the trauma that came along with it. Silently sifting through it all as he built up an idea of who Namor was. His essence, his soul, his feelings. The way they constituted his power, determined his actions. The golden god finally spoke. Freeing Namor from the prison built in his mind.

“You are… scared. This place scares you. Hydra lingers in your mind, leaving you with a constant, heavy burden. It is tiring. Even for one like me to witness.”

Namor, pulled out of his mind, gave a rich and bitter laugh. Gazing up at Adam with a scrutinizing look. Unhappy with the intrusion into his person.

“Then keep yourself out of it. Namor does not need you invading his mind. Nor does he wish for it. Perhaps you’d be better sticking to your own business. I’m sure you’re needed elsewhere.”

Namor’s voice was harsh and on edge. His hand gripping his trident even tighter at the seemingly insensitive violation of his mind. Knuckles turning a lighter shade than his tanned skin. The eye at the trident’s center looking over the golden man before it. But the warlock wasn’t phased. Staring down at Namor’s embittered gaze before turning to the scenery in front of them.

That probably wasn’t the best way to start a conversation with your comrade. Though Adam still struggled with socialization. Only coming out of his regenerative cocoon recently didn’t help either. Nor did the Guardians of the Galaxy and their quirks when it came to conversation.

Adam chose to sit down next to the king. Keeping a respectful distance to not invade more than he has. Provocation would probably end with him on the less favorable side of Namor’s trident.

“Humans are complicated creatures. But for every one of them that is monstrous in nature, there is one with a soul so pure and earnest. The duality of man is truly an incomprehensible visage.”

Namor grunted. Eyes hardening as his face contorted into a deep scowl.

“And yet it seems my people will only see the monstrous side. I may have done things to earn the hatred of humans, but my people have not. And I have even tried to make good relations, but surface dwellers always feign ignorance.”

“And yet despite your ire, you come around to save them. You have much love for some of these ‘surface dwellers’.”

People flashed through Namor’s head. Atlantean and human both. Very reflective of his own complicated heritage. Love for every one of them. A warmth spreading through Adam’s patterned chest at the endearing emotion.

“I may not know much of human politics, but I know equality is a concept they have yet to fully grasp. One that will take time for fully form and sadly must be earned for those deemed alien to them. I can only hope you will make them see otherwise.”

Namor stared at him for a moment. Lying back on the cold, hard metal of the catwalk. His legs dangling and swaying. His trident now loose in his hands, caressing the metals and intricate detailing of it.

“You are far too sincere to one like me Warlock…”

With that Namor disappeared. Lost into the snowy winds as he departed from the hydra base. Like he was never present in the first place. Only the lingering imprint of his soul that only one could see. Adam contemplated flying after him. Curiosity for his ally and intrigue in the world he lived in. He wanted to pry into it and understand. Learn more about the ocean monarch.

But the golden man was pried from his thoughts at the call of his name. The rest of the team required his assistance with interrogation of their foes. Adam was quite effective at getting into their minds and getting confessions. However he couldn’t help but realize that no one noticed the missing presence of the mariner. His existence gone completely over the heads of the team. It left an odd feeling in Adam’s stomach. One where his only solace was knowing he was here to witness him.

Notes:

Hope I wrote Adam Warlock well. I don’t know much about him other than what the game lore and dialogue offers. And most of the research I did was about his powers. But I think I did his character justice.

Wrote this while watching MRC. Had it in the background all day as I’ve been doing things. You should watch it if you’re as enthusiastic about this game as me. But school is starting in September so I’ll probably upload more infrequently than I do now. But I’ll do my best to be continue uploads regardless.

Chapter 11: Namor Helps Steve Feel a Little More At Home

Summary:

Captain America 2099 feels a little like he doesn’t belong because he’s not the Steve all his allies remember. But at least Namor will always share memories with him.

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Steve Roger’s wasn’t a man to waver. He was a leader, a role model, an unshakable force that towered over any battlefield with his presence. It was expected of him. Even if he wasn’t the Captain America his new allies remembered, Steve was greatly respected because of what his other counterpart in the timestream had done. Which was apparently save the world and its people on multiple occasions. Going from just a soldier out of time to a real superhero fighting alongside and against gods and monsters was a big step. But he’d keep it together. People were counting on him. On Captain America.

But that didn’t mean he was okay. The stress of it all was getting to him. Now the super soldier was stuck in Kun-Lun. Stuck between an angel, a devil, and a Doctor Doom. The three turning the city into a battlefield where it was unknown who was right. Perhaps it was because he was still human, unlike many of his comrades. Maybe that’s why he was so dejected compared to them. Or maybe they were just better at hiding it.

Though Steve couldn’t shake the feeling he didn’t belong. The only ones he was familiar with were Bucky and Namor. Both grown, changed men. Bucky was off on a mission of his own. And Namor… cold and rather hostile to many people. His ire toward the surface world even more intense. Steve was in the mythical city with him and a few others. But it was hard to start a conversation. The Namor he remembered was gentle yet fierce. His love was as strong as the man himself. His hatred for the Nazi’s was unrelenting, yet he mourned the lives of those who died by their hands with his own tears.

Now when he looked at Namor he saw none of that. His vendetta against surface dwellers taking a bitter and violent turn. And despite the hate the king received, Cap couldn’t hate him. He did have a bias. He knew that much. Fighting in a war builds an intimate connection. A family bond that Steve was searching so desperately for in his former friend. So he stayed optimistic. Especially when Namor entered the room in their hideout and sat next to him. At least he was hated the least among the other heroes.

Steve was keeping himself busy with drawing. Trying to focus on something other than his misery. But each sketch was coming out wrong. Not right. Wonky in a way only he would be able to see. Kun-Lun was beautiful. A subject worth capturing. Much better than the symbiotes he ended up drawing during his run as Captain Klyntar. However it wasn’t his vision of elegance and whimsy. So when Namor sat next to him, he was glad. Glad to be pulled out of his frustration.

The king didn’t talk. A cursory glance towards his beat up sketchbook caused a raise of the eyebrows. But Steve was still aware enough to notice it.

“You want to see it? Don’t mind of you look through.”

Cap eased his posture. Leaning back against the couch to allow Namor to look. He didn’t speak and instead grabbed the book. An account of Steve’s travels across timelines. But there were also other sketches. Sketches of people Steve knew during the war. Faces he didn’t want to forget. He saw Namor pause on pages. Sketches of each of the Invaders. One page filled with Namor and Jim. Their likeness and attitudes captured perfectly. It was always something Steve remembered fondly.

“You like it? Just don’t want to forget you guys. I know I’m not the exact Steve you remember… but I know we share these memories. And I really did treasure our time together.”

Steve spoke rather bashfully. A slight blush, suddenly feeling embarrassed of his work. Would Namor find it odd?

“You’ve always been good with a pencil Captain. These almost make it seem like war wasn’t a miserable affair with you humans causing carnage and chaos.”

“Yeah well, gotta keep spirits up.”

“Yet you are the one that is drowning Steve.”

Steve froze, feeling awkward with Namor’s observation. He spoke so casually and matter-of-factly. Almost a haughtiness to his voice. And Steve couldn’t help but relent to it. Finally letting the exhaustion bleed into his voice. Namor had seen him at his worst before. Didn’t matter much if he saw him a little down.

“Guess I am. Bit tiring, y’know, all this. Feels a little out of my element. Captain America fought Nazis and Hydra, not Asgardian gods n’ such in places out of fairytales”

“Yes… I suppose this is a lot. But that has never stopped you. Captain America is not a man to be deterred. And Steve Rogers has a heart too big to turn away from the people’s plight.”

Namor was still gazing down, flipping through pages of art. Acting like he wasn’t giving Steve what he needed. A moment to talk. To vent his stress. Steve let out a laugh. It was small and quiet, but sincere. A smile coming over him as he looked at the mariner. Said mariner looked back at him. Turing stiff at Steve’s expression. A quizzical glare on his face, Namor stayed quiet. Not quite understanding why Steve was so happy with simple conversation.

It made Steve laugh more. A warm joy he hadn’t felt in a while. The warmth of a friend being around to hear you.

“Thanks Namor. It’s nice having someone familiar around. I wasn’t sure you even wanted to talk to me anymore. You seem so different and yet so familiar. And it feels like I’m unchanged. Guess sitting in ice for decades has really messed me up.”

“You are one of the few surface dwellers I respect Captain. Even if I have changed, that aspect will not. The Invaders are men Namor  will never forget.”

The two settled into a comfortable silence. Namor flicking through sketches and Steve just taking a moment to think. To rest his mind. He was feeling better no doubt. All thanks to Namor and one conversation. Cap feeling a little less like an outsider and more like he belonged. So he closed his eyes and sighed in comfort. Just enjoying the presence of an old friend around. One who apparently didn’t hate him like Steve kind of thought. And instead felt the same way about the time they spent together. Both treasuring it.

“Do you think Jim and Thomas are out there?”

“I’d say so Namor… I’d say so.”

Notes:

Wanted to explore Steve a little more in this so it does kinda focus on him. Just feel like dealing with not being the exact man many heroes remember would be difficult. Like he has to live up to or be just like the other Steve to fill the gap. But he still shares the same WWII memories with ppl like Namor and Bucky so at least there’s something grounding him. And I like to think of the Invaders as a little family. Sue me.

Ap gov and ap pre calc are not merciful with the homework y’all. Already got projects and deadlines in all my classes. Might invest in a planner. But I wrote this while watching MRC again. Hope it’s okay since I was a little distracted.

Chapter 12: Khonshu is Messing with Namor and Moon Knight

Summary:

Khonshu seems to have this weird connection to Namor. It becomes a problem for both Moon Knight and Namor.

Notes:

(See the end of the chapter for notes.)

Chapter Text

Moon Knight doesn’t know why he did it. Why he moved so quickly. Why he was now sitting in the Baxter Building’s medical facilities. But he did know why there was a man leaning over the doorway, just staring at him with eyes void  of any emotion. Not betraying anything, not anger or sorrow or even happiness. But he was staring at him with those same lavender eyes that drew him closer every time.

Or maybe drew Khonshu closer. The pull was there. Whenever Namor walked past, that pull always came back. To follow, to fight alongside. Being ordered to move his feet to keep up with the inhuman mariner before him. Khonshu was grasping at something, trying to absorb the King into an orbit that wasn’t there in the first place. And Namor could feel it. Grimaced at the feeling of someone dragging him in. To keep him there, around at every moment.

They all felt it. But nothing was ever said. A quiet glance affirmed it was all real and not another crazy mess brewing in the knight’s mind. But that didn’t mean it was understood. Khonshu never once mentioned a thing, not a hint, a word, nothing. He was silent, but his intensity grew with every mission. This just so happened to be the boiling point.

A swarm of bats so large, so terrifying. Beat red eyes and fangs sharper than any blade Moon Knight had on him. The group of heroes took the opportunity to retreat at Namor’s offer to distract the bloodthirsty beasts. His waters coming together to make waves that’s drowned the cursed creatures. Sending them back to the depths of hell where their master truly belonged. But it became overwhelming. So many of them, Namor getting lost in the storm, like he was never there to begin with. No idea of he was living or marred by the bat’s lethal bites.

It forced Moon Knight to move. Playing his role to perfection. A white knight shimmering in the darkness, protecting all that live under the moon’s watchful gaze. Even the tides, which seemed ever moving, never affected by the darkness of the world, were safe under the moonlight.

His crescent cape flowed behind him as he moved. His crescent darts and moon blades ricocheted from bat to bat. The dark swarm filling with specks of pure white as they impaled each of the monsters with precision. Though Namor helped as well. The water carried the blades in a whirlpool like motion, keeping them bouncing through the swarm until there was nothing left. Until the floor was painted in blood and corpses of the vicious creatures.

Namor, while looking tired, hardly suffered more than a few scrapes. “Thankfully,” Moon Knight thought. And the avatar was without any injury himself. However, blots of blood painted his shining white costume, though it was very on brand for the knight. Moon knight couldn’t understand why he was thankful though. The thought was foreign, an invasion from a higher power above. Khonshu. Again with this odd connection. The connection that brought him to act in the first place.

Namor was about to say something. Most likely an arrogant retort to the help he’d just received before a disgustingly shrill screech was heard overhead. The king was quick to clasp his hands over his sensitive ears as the wails grew closer and closer. Moon Knight’s high tech costume of course had measures against even the most peculiar foes. The screams didn’t bother him.

A sound akin to horror writer’s magnum opus of what a true monster is. Moon Knight could visibly see the blood begin to dribble from Namor’s ears. His breathing grew more uneven as he gazed towards Moon Knight. An irritated look on his face as his peripheral’s began to blur at the never ending noise. And within seconds a bat about the size of a small building was soaring above them.

The avatar quickly took a stance with crescent darts in his hands. Namor stumbled up and clutched his trident tightly while trying to face the creature. It continued to circle them. Surveying and looking for the weak link of its two super-powered foes. Moon Knight took the chance to surround the decrepit and broken buildings around them with ankhs. An attempt to make sure if the creature ever got too close, a barrage of the white blades would slice through it.

But then it swooped. Down on the king of the seas with such ferocity. Namor, while slowed, was able to conjure himself a watery bubble of protection against the creature. Moon Knight took the bat’s attack as an opportunity to shoot out his blades. They bounced from the ankhs. The crescents becoming red with the monster’s blood. It let out a scream louder than anything before as it flew in retreat. There were cries of pain as it shook off the blades that impaled its tough skin. And Namor’s bubble broke. A grunt of pain and he collapsed with the sound. The blood now spilling profusely, creating deep red lines down his neck. The bat was slightly shaken, but still took the opportunity to strike the king again. Moving faster this time, it dived with its fangs on display. Going in for a killing bite to end the monarch. It ignored the blades Moon Knight sent out. Taking them head on to kill Namor.

It that moment the knight panicked. That blow was meant to kill. Namor was too weak to dodge. The sounds being too overwhelming for him. And then Khonshu urged him forward. His grappling hook propelled him at speeds he didn’t even know was possible. All he could feel was Khonshu above him. That out of place favor he had for the sea king seeping into his avatar. It made no sense. It really didn’t. It angered the knight. He had no reason to care so much for this newfound ally. Yet there was this overwhelming need to make sure all was well with him. Like he was as dear as family could be.

And as the sharp, piercing claws and teeth came down, the protector of the night took the brunt. The claws stabbed through his stomach in a sudden and undeniably painful way. Moon Knight let out his own pained scream. One that matched the bats shrill sounds of excitement.

It felt like time froze as he looked over to the bleeding king. Namor’s eyes darting in an unreadable expression until he moved swiftly with his trident. His hands moving away from his head as he spun the trident around with expertise. Just as the bat was going to pull away and leave Moon Knight with several bloody holes, Namor stabbed his trident through the beast’s throat. A gargle of pain came from the monster as Namor ripped it out of his throat. Gallons of blood seeped out of the bat as it fell to the ground. Namor then cut through the bat’s leg, severing the claws from its body.

They both collapsed to the ground, panting and covering in sweat. Moon Knight could hear Khonshu’s coaxing to keep his eyes open. How this was a job well. The last thing the knight was those glossed over lavender eyes before he passed out.

when he next awoke all he could feel was the dull yet eternal ache in his chest. No amount of painkillers could numb all the pain. The gentle face of Susan Storm greeted him. Her voice was warm and soft, inviting him to calm down and take a few pained breaths. Apparently after the fight Namor had shoved his way into the building with haste, to the displeasure of many, and demanded that he be fixed. He was yelling the whole time as well, mostly due to the lack of hearing he had at the moment. The king also refused to elaborate on the battle that transpired. And honestly Moon Knight didn’t feel like dwelling on it either.

Over the next few weeks he was left to rest. Others took his place on the field to propel Dracula’s forces. And while he was never good at sitting and resting, it’s better to be able to stomach solid food before you go out to fight the King of Vampires.

For a long time Namor didn’t visit. Moon Knight  dwelled on that for a while. But he could sense when the king finally did make his appearance. The same pull announced it. Leaning in the doorway casually like his life wasn’t just saved by the knight. The arrogance of a king. Moon Knight wasn’t angry though. He just stared at Namor, matching his gaze. Not a word was said as the king’s bare feet moved forward to the bed the avatar was on. Namor sat down. His weight shifting the covers of the bed slightly at Moon Knight gave him a quizzical look.

Namor looked up to the sterile, white ceiling. A deep breath and then back to silence for a moment. Namor stared down at his feet before he finally spoke.

“Namor thanks you for your assistance. Though I would have undoubtedly handled someway, you made it much easier on me. And I thank you greatly for that. You best let Namor know if either of you require assistance.”

He was then gone as quickly as he came. Moon Knight let the weight of his words set in. Obviously he was talking to Khonshu as well. And Moon Knight could tell he was listening anyways. The pull grew gradually as the king spoke. And Khonshu was even more insistent after he left. But instead of Namor blocking off all sense of connection, he let it sit there. Still not invading him, but closer than before. Which seemed to be enough for the god of vengeance.

And as the battle continued throughout the entanglement, they ran into each other more than once. Never on opposing sides either. Khonshu was always pleased with this. And the two beings he dragged into his little mess of connections were forced to deal with the consequences. As per usual.

Notes:

It’s been over a month. I think I deserve a public execution. And I don’t feel like giving you the lame detailed excuse of school and sports so I’m sorry.

I will however say that this chapter was difficult. I’ve wanted to do this duo forever but finding the right way to do it has been hard. And I still am very conflicted on how I feel about it. So sorry about the short, mediocre chapter. I’ll try and do better.

But at least we have season 4.5 now! And the Namor dialogue between phoenix and daredevil heals me as well. So glad to see some better character writing for him this season.