In the vast Hydra hangar, the Red Skull’s voice echoes with fervor as he addresses his masked pilots. “If they shoot down one plane, hundreds more will rain fire upon them!” He pauses, lifting a wine glass filled with dark liquid. “If they cut off one head, two more shall take its place.” He raises the glass. “Hail Hydra.”

The masked Hydra pilots thrust both fists into the air, chanting in unison, “Hail Hydra! Hail Hydra! Hail Hydra! Hail Hydra!”

The Red Skull turns, facing the sprawling ranks of his Hydra army, and raises his glass again. The soldiers mirror the gesture, their voices thundering, “Hail Hydra! Hail Hydra! Hail Hydra!”

The scene shifts to a bombed-out pub in Central London, its walls scarred and rubble-strewn. Peggy Carter climbs over the shattered entryway, spotting Steve Rogers seated at a table, pouring himself a drink. A radio crackles faintly in the distance, the announcer’s voice droning, “Blackout is still in effect throughout the London area. Please wait for the all-clear. Your attention, please. All citizens shall remain indoors until further notice. Blackout is still in effect throughout the London area.”

Steve, staring at the glass, speaks softly, his voice heavy. “Dr. Erskine said that the serum wouldn’t just affect…”