Ohana Till the End of the Line

A/N: Sometimes I wonder if my characters and plots are ever going to let me actually make decisions on what happens. For now it appears they have minds of their own, but part of me isn't complaining since the muse saw fit to let me get another chapter of this story out.

Chapter 5: Absolution

Governor Denning stood in front of the crowd gathered in his press room. "Thank you all for coming today. As many of you know, the specific actions and operations of my Five-0 task force are often kept out of the media in order to maintain their operational effectiveness and keep our islands safe; however, due to the unexpected and very welcome impact of one recent case we have decided to make an exception."

Taking a deep breath he launched into the agreed upon explanation. "Approximately three weeks ago, Commander McGarrett received highly credible intelligence that a small HYDRA cell was active on Oahu. At that time, he and the rest of Five-0 agreed to partner with a contingent from he Avengers." Denning paused to let the gasps of surprise settle. "Yes, you heard that right. Our elite Five-0 task force has now worked along side the Avengers. The goal of the partnership was to ensure the threat from HYDRA was handled with minimal risk or disruption to the civilian population. Based on the fact that the first you are hearing of this operation is this announcement, I would say their efforts were a success."

"At this time, I would like to invite Commander McGarrett and Captain Rogers to make a few remarks. They have agreed to take questions, but I suggest you remember who you are addressing and be respectful, or that will be a short lived privilege."

Sam tried not to laugh at the awed silence that consumed the press room as the two men joined him on stage. After much discussion by the other members of their team and Sam's own public relations team, the pair were dressed similarly in the tactical attire they seemed most comfortable wearing. McGarrett's black cargo pants and blue polo coordinated well with the navy blue uniform of Captain Rogers.

Cap gestured for McGarrett to speak first, attempting to make it clear to the press that, on this island at least, he deferred to the SEAL's position.

"Good morning. As the Governor already stated, we are making an exception to Five-0's normal stance of keeping our activities quiet and out of the media. That does not; however, mean we are intending to go into the operational details of the joint Avengers / Five-0 mission to neutralize the small HYDRA cell. Suffice it to say, the threat was dealt with in a quick and efficient manner with only myself and Captain Rogers receiving any minor injuries." Steve fought off a smirk at the reaction he imagined Danny, Bucky, and Sam Wilson were having to that statement from his house where they were all watching.

McGarrett stepped slightly to the side, letting Cap access the microphone. "Our purpose today is to quell any rumors that might otherwise start flying if the residents of Oahu happen to see members of the Avengers among them. Though our mission with Five-0 was short in duration, our teams have formed a strong bond of friendship. As a result, you can expect to see myself and other members of my team on a regular basis. Having received Governor Denning's blessing, we thought it best to make a statement to avoid any unnecessary concern over our presence. We're not here in anticipation of a threat. We are simply here to enjoy the company of our new friends. Now, as the Governor mentioned, Commander McGarrett and I will be happy to take a few questions." Cap smiled, though his eyes held a hint of warning. He knew how invasive press could get if they wanted.

Hands immediately shot up, and both Steves groaned just a bit. As much as they'd silently wished for no questions, both were smart enough to know that no journalist worth their salt would let such an opportunity pass.

"Captain Rogers, I believe you and your team have largely operated in far less hospitable areas. Are there any particular Hawaiian activities you are hoping to enjoy while here?"

Cap chuckled, relieved that at least the first question was friendly and light-hearted.

"You are correct. Hawaii is several degrees warmer than we're used to and far more beautiful. We've already spent a small amount of time enjoying the water, though I suspect we'll do far more of that. As far as activities go, I believe my team and I will be trying our hands at surfing and exploring some of the excellent opportunities for hiking. Of course, there's already been interest expressed in attending a traditional Hawaiian luau when the opportunity presents itself."

Excited murmurs ripped through the room as his reply. McGarrett leaned over, whispering carefully, "I hope you realize that the entire island is now planning the world's largest luau in your honor."

Cap's head whipped toward him, eyes wide with surprise before he turned back to the microphone. "Please. Please, don't take that as a request to disrupt your lives to make that last part happen. I assure you the team and I are perfectly happy to attend any already planned event. There is no need to go out of your way on our behalf." He could hear both McGarrett and Denning laughing beside him.

"Too late, Captain Rogers." A petite women in the front of the room spoke. "But let me assure you that far from being an imposition, this is the type of thing we love to do. It is a great honor for us to be able to share the spirit of aloha with you and your team."

"Thank you, Ms. Inoke. My team will be happy to help you with scheduling to ensure Captain Rogers and as much of his team as possible are able to attend." As he stepped back again, one of his top aides gestured to him from the side of the stage. Nudging McGarrett, he gestured toward her before ducking to see what was so important it couldn't wait.

Twenty minutes later the three men were all pleasantly surprised that the line of questioning had stayed reasonable and pleasant.

"I believe we have time for one last question." Denning spoke up, knowing the teams didn't want to spend their entire day waiting for this to be over.

One of the journalists in the back was quick to stand. "Is there any truth to the idea that the so called Winter Soldier you fought in DC is none other than your presumed dead best friend and fellow Howling Commando, Sargent James Buchanan Barnes?"

"Shit." McGarrett exhaled beside Captain Rogers as the rest of the room gasped.

"Let me, gentlemen." Governor Denning stepped up, relieved at the information he'd received only moments before. "It is true that Sargent Barnes was held as a POW after his fall from the train. Thankfully, despite their abhorrent treatment, Sargent Barnes survived his years in captivity and is recovering. Due to the complicated nature of his time as a POW, those in DC have agreed to conduct an inquiry at joint based Pearl-Hickham to close this matter. The inquiry will not be open to the press; however, I have been assured a full statement will be made immediately following. With that, I believe we are done for the day."

Denning headed off the stage, McGarrett and Rogers hot on his heels. Everyone cleared out of their way as they headed straight for his office. As soon as the door closed, he turned to face the men. "I'm sorry about that surprise. That's what my aide interrupted to tell me. Knowing how things have a way of leaking, she was afraid someone in the press would get wind of it while we were there. She assures me that indications are the inquiry is a formality and that based on the information provided and what all involved parties learned through the release of SHIELD files following the events in DC, it is fully expected that Bucky will be cleared of all wrong-doing, re-instated as a living US citizen, and awarded full back pay and benefits. That being said, the inquiry is in two days and I plan to be present as a character witness should they be needed."

Both Steves stared at him.

"I'm calling Wade. He and his team will want to be there as well." McGarrett pulled his phone out of his pocket. "You said two days, do you have any other specifics?"

Denning handed him a sheet of paper with the details he'd received. "You should probably call him, I imagine he and the others were watching from McGarrett's house and he's probably worried."

Cap nodded, pulling his own phone out and dialing Bucky without pause.

"Steve?"

"Buck," he wasn't surprised the other man answered almost immediately. "It's okay. Governor Denning got the info when he was pulled aside at the press conference."

"What if they want to lock me up, Steve?" Bucky sounded genuinely frightened.

"They don't. The Governor was assured it is a formality so you can get on with your life. And you know we'll all be there to support you." Steve could hear the group gathered with Bucky and their exclamations that he'd be taken over their dead bodies.

"What if I deserve to be locked up?" His voice was small and defeated.

"You don't, Buck. You would never have done those things if you had a choice. You were a good man and a war hero before they got their hands on you. You still are. And I'm not kidding, you know both entire teams, Governor Denning, and from the sounds of it Commanders Gutches' entire SEAL team will be there to back you up. In two days time you're going to walk out of that room a free man without the need to hide."

Two Days Later

Standing in the middle of McGarrett's living room, Bucky tried not to fidget as his Steve fussed over the tie of his newly acquired and very pristine Army uniform befitting his rank and bearing all the various awards he'd received prior to his supposed death along with a new POW ribbon.

"I still don't see how you managed to pull of getting this together on such short notice." He caught McGarrett's eye over Steve's shoulder.

"I could make up some BS about calling in favors and you owing me, but honestly I made one phone call and my contact took care of everything. Face it Bucky, everyone in the military community knows what's happening today. We all grew up to stories about you two and the rest of the Howling Commandos, and almost any one of us would jump at the opportunity to help make today easier."

"Listen to him, Buck. I know you're not gonna settle down until you walk out of there having been officially cleared of any wrongdoing, but you are not alone. There are a whole lot of people out there that believe in you." Steve squeezed his shoulder.

"Everyone ready?" Danny asked as he came through the front door, looking a bit sheepish at his surprise appearance. "The rest of the gang is meeting us there, but Grace refused to let me take her to school until she had a chance to see Bucky." He'd barely finished when Grace pushed passed him, heading straight to Bucky.

Not caring if he wrinkled his uniform, Bucky immediately leaned down to embrace her. "You better not be late for school because of me."
"I won't be," she promised. "But I'm pretty sure my teacher would understand." Grace stepped back slightly, offering him an oversized envelope that she'd been carrying. "A bunch of the teachers and kids at school wanted you to have this."

Bucky's head cocked in confusion, but he quickly opened the offered package. Pulling out a stack of colorful papers, he saw it was a collection of notes, letters, and handmade cards all voicing their support. Vision blurred with unshed tears, he looked from Grace to Steve and back again. "When ... How ... Why?"

"I got a lot of questions yesterday after everyone saw the press conference. When this is all done they really want you to come visit." She turned to Cap, "You too."

"Good to know I haven't been completely upstaged." Cap winked at her.

"But until then, they just wanted you to know that they all think it's really awesome that you're here and you've got lots of support." Grace explained.

"Alright Monkey, you've made him cry. Now give him another hug so I can take you to school." Danny prodded before turning toward McGarrett to give Bucky and Grace a chance to get that final hug in. "You know if this gets done quickly we're going to have to stop at the school. She'll kill me if she finds out we made her wait for verification that all is well until the end of the day."

"Yeah, I know." McGarrett grinned. "She'd probably kill us both."

A few minutes later, everyone was piled into McGarrett's truck. They had just enough time to drop Grace off on their way to Pearl-Hickham, so they'd decided to go as a single group instead of arriving separately.

When McGarrett pulled up to the gate security, the two men on duty promptly saluted before peering inside the truck to lay eyes on Cap and Bucky. "It's an honor and a privilege to meet you both. We're all standing with you, Sargent Barnes."

Bucky gave them a sharp nod, not sure he could find his voice to reply to yet another outpouring of support.

As McGarrett drove toward their destination, all eyes scanned the area.

"I don't recall seeing this many people last time I was here." Danny noted, taking in the sea of uniformed bodies that all seemed to be headed in the same direction.

"You didn't." McGarrett confirmed. "I believe this is a show of support." His eyes met Bucky's in the rear view mirror. "You tell us if the crowds are too much. I'd bet they want to support you, but will readily respect your needs."

"Thanks." Bucky's voice was shaken, the overwhelming evidence that the people he'd expected to fear and hate him were prepared to welcome him home with open arms still throwing him.

Parking the truck, Steve noted the assembled crowd was organized and orderly in a way that only military personnel could pull of so seamlessly. As the four exited the vehicle, meeting on the sidewalk toward the door, one person from the crowd approached.

"Pardon the interruption, Commander." The young Captain addressed McGarrett first as he stood between him and the others.

"That's okay, Captain. I take it you've been selected as the spokesperson for the crowd."

"Indeed." His eyes shifted to Bucky as he and Cap stepped forward. "We know you need to get inside, but we wanted to make sure you knew that we're all standing with you. When it's all said and done, everyone on base would be thrilled if you and Captain Rogers ever wanted to come by and show us a thing or two."

All three men chuckled at the last comment.

"I believe we might be able to work something out." Bucky grinned, feeling far calmer than he had at any time since finding out what was happening today. "Please let everyone know I appreciate their support more than I will likely every be able to adequately express." He extended his flesh hand forward, shaking the Captain's hand before the younger man headed back to his comrades.

"You know, I'm don't even think I ever managed to amass a crowd this big during my peak." Cap elbowed him.

"Only because SHIELD kept you under lock and key after they thawed you out. Had everyone known you were back before the whole alien invasion thing, I'm sure there would have been massive celebrations in your honor." Bucky smirked at him.

Approaching the door, it swung open before they could reach for the handle, Lou grinning at them as they passed. "Welcome to the circus. We're right down the hall." He lead the way, clearly having already scoped things out. "They've kept the people in the room limited to the Governor, Five-0, Avengers, and Wade's team."

Bucky was surprised how full the room appeared given the limited list Lou had recited. Governor Denning stood between Chin and Kono. Tony, Thor, Natasha, Clint, Wanda, Rhodey, and Sam all stood in the row behind them. Only Vision and Bruce weren't present. The former because he was concerned about alarming people unfamiliar with him, and the latter because he'd yet to return from his hiatus. Behind them in two rows stood the entire sixteen members of Seal Team 9.

Hurrying to his designated seat, Steve by his side. Bucky couldn't help the sense of shock he felt at having so many people here to have his back. Every time he'd imagined this day, he'd been surrounded by people wanting to crucify him for all the things he did while under HYDRA control. Not once had he let himself imagine that his day of reckoning would entail such displays of support as he had witnessed thus far.

Of course, the panel hadn't appeared.

As if summoned by his thoughts, the door at the side of the room opened and five men in impeccably starched and pressed uniforms strode in to fill the seats behind the raised platform. Two Army Generals, one each from the Marines and Air Force, and a Navy Admiral. All looking serious and not a single one looking his direction.

The entire room stood at attention as they found their seats, and Bucky wasn't convinced any of them were breathing. Or maybe that was just him.

"At ease everyone. Please, take your seats." The Army General in the middle spoke, finally looking at the crowd. "Sargent Barnes, are you aware of the reason for today's inquiry?"

"Yes, sir. The inquiry will review my actions during the time I was presumed dead between my separation from the Howling Commandos until the present day, decide the ramifications of those actions, and determine my future status as a still living US citizen." Bucky recited the explanation, though in far less positive and flattering terms than it had been relayed to him. He could feel Steve's incredulous stare boring into the side of his head.

"Son, you sound as if you don't expect to walk away from this," the Marine sounded surprised.

"My fate is in your hands, sir. My conditioning during my time with HYDRA may have prevented exerting my free will, but I have sense recovered all memories of that time and am aware of everything I did during my time as The Asset. I will accept whatever decision the panel reaches in regards to my future."

Bucky could feel the tension from the crowd radiating behind him. He knew the last thing any of them wanted was for him to roll over and let the panel imprison him. Hell, he wasn't fond of the idea, but standing here in front of them, he knew the only way to move forward was to submit himself to the will of those deemed fit to judge him. After all, he was The Asset … the Winter Soldier. He'd taken lives, torn families apart, all in the name of an organization that sought to destroy everything he stood for.

This time it was the Navy Admiral that responded. "Sargent Barnes, our intention today is not to extract further punishment for the heinous acts you were subject to during your time as a prisoner of war. And let's be clear, as far as everyone on this panel is concerned, the time period from when you fell from that train to when you escaped HYDRA's control following the events in DC is considered to have been a period of imprisonment."

"Now, we have all reviewed the information that was released during the SHIELD data purge as well as additional files that were provided to us. While we have already discussed this information and have reached a probable decision, we wish to ask a questions of a few members of today's audience. Mr. Stark, would you care to step forward."

Tony rose immediately, his usual tendency to be flippant with authority figures quelled by the fear that he was somehow going to hurt Bucky's chances of walking away. "Of course, sir." He approached the small stand and microphone positioned in the middle of the room.

"Mr. Stark, are you aware that according to now public files, Sargent Barnes is credited with the murder of your parents, Howard and Maria Stark?" A collective gasp filled the air, all eyes fixed on Tony as they awaited his response.

"Yes, sir. I am aware that the Winter Soldier is credited with their deaths. I am also aware that Sargent Barnes counted my father as a friend during the time they were acquainted during World War II. Howard spoke with great fondness of both he and Captain Rogers on a regular basis. Unfortunately, he found himself on the wrong side of HYDRA thanks to his continued research around the serum used on the Captain. If it hadn't been the Winter Soldier to kill them it would have been another HYDRA henchman. I'm just thankful that while he was brainwashed to the point of not knowing that he knew them, reports indicate their deaths were quick and reasonably painless."

"You're saying you don't want to seek vengeance against the man responsible for their deaths?" One of the generals pushed, looking rather surprised.

"Point me in the direction of the person that decided my father needed to die or the one that gave the Winter Soldier the kill order, and sure I'll be happy to serve up some vengeance. James Buchanan Barnes does not deserve to be on the receiving end of that vengeance. He had no part in that."

"I notice you distinguish between Sargent Barnes and the Winter Soldier when speaking. Do you view them as separate entities?"

"Yes sir. I do. Sargent Barnes is a good man, a war hero, a person with free will and the ability to make decisions regarding his actions. We've all read the history books and in more recent history I've had the pleasure of getting to know him. Everything about Bucky stands in stark contrast to the HYDRA asset known as the Winter Soldier. That asset a weapon, dragged through some of the most inhumane treatment possible until it lacked any sense of agency. It is impossible hold the actions of the asset against the man forced to submit to its creation." Tony's hands were balled into tight fists, frustration at the idea that these men might not understand the distinction.

"Thank you, Mr. Stark. That will be all." The middle general dismissed him. "Commander Gutches, please step forward."

"Yes, sir." The SEAL rose immediately, taking the place Tony had just vacated.

"We understand you and your team took part in an unsanctioned mission to eliminate the HYDRA cell sent to recapture Sargent Barnes. Given the high standard of performance and ethics you require from your team, how would you describe Sargent Barnes' actions during that mission?"

"Yes, due to the sensitivity of the mission and under my direction, my team took part in the mission in question." Wade was prepared to take the heat for his decision though he knew he entire team would have his head for trying to take the fall alone. "Sargent Barnes' performance was above reproach. He was instrumental in planning the mission, adamant that he be the one put at risk, and determined to execute the entire thing with no civilians being placed in danger. He communicated clearly with everyone involved at all stages, executed his role without hesitation, and was immediately concerned with the welfare of the rest of the team at the conclusion of the mission. In short, should Sargent Barnes ever be interested in a career as a Navy SEAL, I imagine it would be quite the fight to see which team he landed on."

"Thank you, Commander. You may return to your seat."

"Yes, sir." Wade saluted before turning away from the panel.

"Commander McGarrett, you're next."

"Yes, sir." Steve stood, quickly approaching the stand.

"Commander, can you elaborate on how you and your team met Sargent Barnes?"

"Of course, sir. I received a call requesting assistance in keeping Sargent Barnes safe until a contingent from the Avengers could arrive to handle the threat against him. He had called and requested support after taking cover in an isolated area of Oahu after making several HYDRA agents tailing him. His primary concern was for the safety of those on the island. Given his training and abilities, he likely could have fought off the operatives, but knew that doing so increased the chances of collateral damage. Instead, he followed every instruction we gave him, provided as much information as he could to allow my team to quickly locate and identify the threat, and did everything he could to keep others safe."

"Commander Gutches already gave us some insight into the initial mission. Is there anything else you believe we should know from your experience with Sargent Barnes since the HYDRA cell was dealt with?"

"Sargent Barnes has been residing as a guest in my house since we initially made contact with him. While it will likely take him some time to fully recover from his time as a POW, he has established himself firmly in the small circle of people I trust beyond a shadow of a doubt. Most recently, Sargent Barnes was instrumental in preventing my kidnapping at the hands of Wo Fat. His quick thinking saved me and put an end to a years long struggle to apprehend a known criminal. With all do respect, sirs, Sargent Barnes deserves to have his identity and all military benefits restored. He deserves the opportunity to live his life however he wishes. He survived things that the majority of the population can't even imagine and has come through as one of the most decent people I have ever know. Every person on my team would say the same."

"Thank you, Commander McGarrett. You may take your seat." The Navy officer released him.

The panel members all rose, forming a tight circle behind their seats for a just a few moments before returning to their seats.

"First, we'd like to thank everyone for attending today. While we imagine there are several more of you willing to stand and give your own assessment of Sargent Barnes, the panel finds it unnecessary to hear further testimony. Sargent Barnes, are you prepared to hear the decision of the panel?"

"Yes sir." Bucky stood, trying to remain calm as he waited to hear his fate.

"The panel, having reviewed all evidence and testimony has determined the following. Sargent James Buchanan Barnes' records shall be updated to reflect his status as a prisoner of war from 1944 to 2015. He shall be awarded all back pay and benefits commiserate with that status. As far as the actions of the Winter Soldier, Sargent Barnes is absolved of all wrongdoing as it is the clear understanding of the court that all actions were taken under severe duress and were not in any way a reflection of the decisions or wishes of Sargent Barnes. This panel's decisions are a reflection of the opinion of the United States government and military. By all accounts, Sargent Barnes is a war hero, an exemplary soldier, and a good man. We wish him all the best in his future life."

The room fell silent as the general concluded his speech.

"Well if nobody else is going to say it, I will." The Marine general stood. "Congratulations on your freedom, son. I hear there's going to be a luau to rival any ever held on this island soon. If it's not too much to ask, I'd love to have a drink with you and get to know you better."

"Cheers to that." The rest of the panel joined.

Still partially stunned into silence, Bucky nodded. "Yes sirs. Of course. It would be my genuine pleasure."

Before he could say anything else, he felt Steve's arms crushing him to against the blond's chest. "Hear that, Buck. You've officially received absolution."

At those words, Bucky sobbed against his best friend's chest, the feeling of more arms surrounding him barely registering.

By the time he'd regained his composure, and stood straight again, he looked around the room. The panel had cleared, but everyone else remained huge smiles reflecting their happiness at the decision.

Governor Denning stepped forward, "Congratulations, Bucky. Let me be the first to officially welcome you to Hawaii."

"Thank you, Governor. It's nice to officially be here." He grinned at the politician, the reality that he was actually free to resume a normal life.

"I already have someone on my team ensuring all the necessary paperwork is being pushed through so you can get a drivers license, open a bank account, and get all your back pay and benefits sorted out. For now, enjoy your freedom and have some fun. Nothing changes from when last we spoke, you are welcome here as long as you choose to make Oahu your home and welcome to join McGarrett's team or pursue any other venture you want to while you're here."

"Wow, I guess I hadn't even gotten to the part where I needed to think through how I was going to make all that happen. It's still sinking in that it's an option in the first place." He accepted the hand Denning offered, shaking it with a warm smile.

"Now, I should get back at it and I believe you have an large group of adoring fans that would like an update." The governor pointed toward where the majority of the population of the base was waiting outside.

Before everyone could disperse, McGarrett caught their attention. "I'm sure many of you have things to get back to, but for anyone that is interested, there's plenty of beer and pizza to be had at my place this evening. Bring your suits and stop by if you're interested."

The group hooted and hollered in approval of the plan.

"I hope you're ready to buy a lot of pizza." Danny quipped.

"Totally worth it. He deserves a celebration with friends." McGarrett grinned. "Bucky, I believe you should lead us all out of here."

Nodding, Bucky glanced over to his Steve, making sure the blond was at his side as they headed for the door. They were met with smiles from everyone they met as onlookers took in the fact he was walking out freely and with a huge grin plastered on his face.

Walking out the front door, Bucky stopped on the sidewalk the Avengers, Five-0, and SEAL team 9 behind him. Raising his hands, he let out a loud cheer and his voice was quickly joined by a chorus of excited yells.

Once the crowd finally calmed down, the teams headed their vehicles, plenty of them saying they intended to be at McGarrett's place later in the day.

"Something tells me you're going to need more beer, McGarrett." Tony stopped beside him on the way to Kono's car. "Why don't you let me take care of the arrangements for tonight?" Steve started to argue, but he could see it was important to the shorter man.

"If you're sure it's not too much trouble."

"Trust me, it's not." Tony grinned up at him.

A few minutes later, McGarrett, Danny, Bucky, and Cap were headed off the base toward home.

"You know, we should probably stop and let Grace know. I know you said you'd call and let the school know, but I'm sure she's like an in person update." Cap suggested as they drove.

"You might be right." Danny chuckled imagining how excited Grace would be when she got the news. By the end of the day, anyone with access to television, radio, or the internet was likely to know once the official statement was released, but at this point they could still surprise her.

"To the school we go then." McGarrett nodded, following the route that would lead them to Grace.

On the way, the men agreed they would ask to have Grace sent to the office rather than going to her classroom and disrupting the day for everyone. With McGarrett driving, it didn't take long to reach the school and the four hurried into the building to avoid drawing attention.

Already familiar with Danny and McGarrett, the front office staff let them straight in and agreed to send for Grace. As they waited, the principal came out of her office to greet them.

"It's an honor to meet you Captain Rogers, Sargent Barnes." She shook their hands. "I hope you received the messages from everyone."

"I did, ma'am. It meant a lot that they took the time to do it." He smiled warmly. "Grace mentioned you were hoping we could come in for a visit sometime. If you'll let us know when it would be least disruptive, we'd be glad to spend as much of a day as you believe is appropriate with the classes."

"That would be amazing, but please let us know what works best for your schedules. Given a few days of warning, we can make almost any day work just fine. It would be such a treat for the entire school."

"Bucky!" Before they could discuss any other details, Grace flew into the room, launching herself at the super soldier. "You're here! It went okay? Just like Governor Denning promised? Are you free?" Her arms and legs were wrapped around him as he stood up straight again, having stooped down to catch her.

"Sure am, Gracie. It couldn't have gone any better. We're gonna have a big party a Steve's place tonight to celebrate." He squeezed her tight. "We wanted to come tell you so you wouldn't worry and could focus on your classes the rest of the day."

"Smart thinking. I think everyone in my class was too worried about it to really focus this morning. Ms. Sharon will be thrilled to bits that we can get back to work now."

Setting her back on her feet, Bucky gave her one more quick squeeze. "Then you better get back to it. I'll see you after school, okay?"

"Got it!" Grace beamed at him before turning toward the other three. She stopped to give each of them a hug before hurrying back to her class to share the good news.

"Maybe I should put everyone out of their misery and make a school wide announcement." The principal laughed as she watched Grace half run half skip down the hallway.

"That might be more efficient." Danny smirked at her.

Without any other prompting, she ducked behind the secretaries desk and turned on the announcement system. "Attention all faculty and students. I'm aware that many of you have been anxiously awaiting word on the official results from Sargent Barnes' inquiry today. I'm happy to announce that we have received word that everything went well and if everyone is on their best behavior he and Captain Rogers will be coming to visit our school very soon."

Setting the microphone down, she laughed at the sound of the excited cheering throughout the school.

"I don't think I've ever heard them that excited, not even when we announce the final dismissal for summer break."

Everyone was smiling as they headed out of the school, sounds of celebration following them out the door.

"How's it feel to be free?" Cap asked as approached the truck.

"Feels good. Still not sure it's really sunk in yet, but it feels damn good." Bucky slung an arm around Steve's shoulders. "Even better knowing I'm not alone."

"Not alone, Buck. Never alone."

"He's right, you know." McGarrett chimed in, "Remember, we're ohana…"

"Til the end of the line," the other three recited with him in unison.

*~*~*~OHANA~*~*~*

A/N: So I'm pretty sure not a bit of that whole military inquiry panel was remotely close to realistic, but I'm writing fanfic not some procedural drama.

Anyway, this wasn't how I anticipated this chapter going based on how things were left in the last one, but apparently Denning and his aides kinda jumped the gun. I think this will actually conclude the initial story, but I still have to finish What Happens in Vegas and have a myriad of other shorter stories that can live in this universe if readers are interested.
So please drop me a line in the reviews and let me know if you want more (i.e. the animal sanctuary, Grace and Kono's spring break trip, the luau, any number of random things that might happen now that these two groups have manage to merge into a single universe).