What If... 2010

As The Watcher guides us through a mesmerizing tapestry of alternate realities, we are introduced to a world punctuated by Captain Peggy Carter’s unexpected heroism. In this universe, while World War II grips the globe and Red Skull commands Hydra’s forces, Brooklyn witnesses a pivotal moment as Steve Rogers (played by Chris Evans) steps forward to volunteer for the super-soldier program, setting in motion the events chronicled in The First Avenger.

However, the story takes a gripping turn as Peggy Carter decides to administer the super-soldier serum to herself, fiercely rejecting the norms of her time. Inside the laboratory, the atmosphere teems with energy as the Hydra agent makes his move amidst a flurry of activity. The heartfelt moment turns chaotic when Steve Rogers is gravely injured, prompting Howard Stark to scramble to save the project by placing a subject in the serum module. With courage and determination, Peggy steps up, transforming into a formidable warrior when she emerges from the transformation capsule.

Despite the skepticism of General Flynn, Stark’s encouragement leads Carter to become Captain Carter, a legendary figure feared by her enemies. While Stark revels in the achievement, Flynn dismisses the success due to Carter being a woman rather than the military soldier they anticipated. Defiantly, Peggy declares, > “I have a super-soldier,” challenging the gender dynamics in military warfare.

As Carter continues her journey, she forms a bond with Steve Rogers, sharing moments of vulnerability and mutual support, especially as they discuss their treatment of the war and family ties. Amidst the chaos, the scene transitions to a beleaguered Norway where Steve expresses concerns for his best friend, Bucky Barnes. In a surge of emotional support, Peggy reassures him that she is determined to end the war.

As Hydra unleashes terror on a European town, an unrelenting tension grows among Stark, Flynn, and Carter regarding the retrieval of the tesseract. When the villain seizes the powerful device, a horrified civilian pays with their life. Fearful of the repercussions, Stark and Carter spring into action while Flynn remains wary of the potential fallout.

Following a successful mission, Stark equips Carter with her iconic costume and shield, finally solidifying her status as an independent hero – Captain Carter. Her journey becomes a whirlwind of daring rescues where she showcases her strength and ingenuity, reclaiming the vital tesseract for the Allies. Armed with the powerful artifact, Peggy’s heroics reach new heights as she sets her sights on liberating Bucky Barnes, coming to his aid just in time to prevent catastrophe.

In a heart-stopping series of events targeting a heavily fortified train, the stakes rise as Iron Man, Carter, and Steve penetrate the enemy line. With Carter’s quick reflexes saving Bucky, they take on a precarious situation that reveals the explosive setup aboard the train. With chaos raining down, Carter undertakes a daring endeavor to expose Red Skull’s nefarious and monstrous plans, where every second counts in their quest to restore peace.

The final showdown centers around Carter leading the charge against Hydra’s fierce fortress, joined by Bucky and a band of loyal fighters. However, they face a harrowing encounter when Red Skull harnesses the tesseract’s powers, summoning a creature that threatens to consume their world. As the heroes rally, they confront challenges that test their wills and abilities.

When chaos subsides, our heroes emerge victorious but at a great cost. In the end, Carter must make an impossible decision: to seal the portal closed to save her reality. Embracing the bittersweet nature of sacrifice, Carter steps into her new destiny, parting ways with Rogers but cherishing their unyielding bond.

Throughout the dynamic narrative, the Watcher provides insights that encapsulate the thematic weight of Carter’s choice to remain in a realm where her contributions are vital, but her prominence is overshadowed by the need to protect the multiverse. The story not only highlights her journey but also casts light on the nuances of heroism, gender roles, and the interwoven connections that define our existence.