[network] @ADMIN; Arrival

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Comments

>private

[definingfuture]

Interesting. [Probably not the best word to use for what John describes to him, but Tony is interested in the puzzle. The details that might tell them what's really going on. As bad as some of it sounds, it might help him sort out what is going on. None of this can be mere coincidence.]

We have things like this where I'm from. Same time, actually. I've seen all of the above, and there's a good chance that we're dealing with most of them. I hope it's not magic. If it is, we're at a disadvantage.

>private

[jumpthegun]

[John used to live with someone who kept heads in the fridge and eyeballs in the microwave for experiments. 'Interesting' is tame compared to some of the replies Sherlock has prepared him for.]

Not sure we're at much of an advantage if it's technology, mate. [There's an awkward pause.] Mr. Stark. Sorry. [He clears his throat quietly.]

We don't really have much to work with, is all. We can't even catch anything to examine. Or we haven't been able to, yet.

>private

[definingfuture]

We are, even though they're doing their best to prevent us from using it. I can't help much if it comes to magic.

[He gives John a half-smirk, almost questioning as he pauses to take him in.]

But you probably already knew that. [He's testing just a bit. Maybe Steve mentioned him. It isn't impossible. But based on the situation Tony left, he's wondering what would give Steve the motivation to mention Tony was an Avenger. That seems like an awful friendly conversation to have when they weren't that friendly.]

>private

[jumpthegun]

[Panic, panic, panic! Okay. No. This is fine. The Avengers are used to publicity. Everyone knows who they are. He really doesn't want to tell Tony that he's just fictional in John's work, a comic book character - not the one from the movies. He knows there are probably differences, but he has no idea what those would be beyond looks. Well, this Tony seems a bit more level, less of a fast-talker. That's not hard considering the man who plays him in the movies.]

Yeah, I... did, sir.

[Tony isn't his favorite out of the Avengers, that had been Steve, but he certainly likes him. He'll leave it vague for now, just let Tony assume what he will and run with that.]

>private

[definingfuture]

[Tony cocks an eyebrow at the hesitation. It's like Watson didn't want to say he knew anything about Tony, even though Tony's reputation was pretty widely known anyway. Maybe Steve had said something else about him. He wonders about that. Maybe the conversation was another kind entirely.]

Okay. [He smiles, inclining his head to let John know that he won't push any further.]

Well, as long as you know, then I'll put consultation on the table. In case that's something you need in the future. I know you have more experience in this place, but ust in case, it doesn't hurt to have options.

[And he winks to keep things friendly.]

>private

[jumpthegun]

[John can't help a small smile at that wink. Okay. He can't help it. Even if this isn't the movie Tony Stark, he's a Tony Stark, and John's inner fanboy is jumping up and down. He glances away for a moment, and perhaps that will make more sense to Tony, that John's a fan.]

Thanks. I'm available, as well, if you need anything. Not just information. I'm a surgeon, and I served in Afghanistan until a few years ago. John offers a brief salute.]

Captain John Watson of the 5th Northumberland Fusiliers.

>private

[definingfuture]

[That little smile and turn of his head is charming. He probably doesn't know it. It's just honest in a way that Tony can appreciate. And the little salute, too? Please. Someone should just stamp John with a giant gold star.]

Well, Captain, I'd be honored to work with you any time. If we run into something, I'll be sure to call you about it. And pass along anything useful I find. You're clearly doing good work here.

>private

[jumpthegun]

[Okay. Okay, he needs to keep his expression and tone neutral, but it's like having Steve and Peggy agree to work with him all over again. But this time it's Ironman and maybe Black Widow. Right, yes. Keeping up composure, though. He might sound a little giddy, though.]

I'll do whatever I can, Mr. Stark. Ah... depending on where you've turned up, though, if you do happen to run into Ms. Carter, perhaps I'll see you if you stay with her? We're going to be meeting near the school. It's one of the few places you can get food around here.

>private

[definingfuture]

If I run into her, I'll stay with her. I have a friend here I'm trying to meet up with, but if I find Miss Carter on the way there, I'll stay with her. And if I don't, we can head that way once I pick up my friend.

[Because he's prioritizing Natasha. He has to. It's not a question that he'll coordinate with the other Avenger first to have the advantage of her help. She'll be better than he is in a pinch and he knows it.]

Keep in touch. If anything happens before we get to the school, we can change plans.

>private

[jumpthegun]

Thank you. S'pose I might see you in a few days, then. Good luck, sir.