"By the way, Pierce, how's the investigation into the Hydra incident I asked you to look into some time ago?"
Looking at Alexander Pierce, Nick Fury asked cautiously.
"There are some clues," Pierce replied.
He took out a cigar, lit it, and exhaled a puff of smoke before continuing.
"Last time I went back, I had people start investigating from the lower-level agents. It turns out that some of them are indeed acting suspiciously."
"For that reason, I specifically arranged for Sitwell and the intelligence team to monitor them. It won't be long before we uncover all the Hydra operatives behind those agents."
Hearing that, Nick Fury smiled with satisfaction.
"I knew this wouldn't be difficult for you."
"Need I say that?" Pierce chuckled. "Don't forget, you became Director of S.H.I.E.L.D. back then because of my help!"
Then, standing up, Pierce said, "Alright, I'm heading out. Today's my granddaughter's seventh birthday. You know, she's been looking forward to it for weeks."
Nick smirked. "Isn't Sarah crazy about Barbie dolls? Here — this is the newest one on the market."
"You," Pierce laughed as he took the doll, "sometimes you're even better than me at being a grandfather. I really don't know who Sarah likes more!"
As he laughed heartily, Fury watched him leave.
If there was even a sliver of a chance, Nick Fury really didn't want to doubt his old friend.
A few minutes later, he took out his phone and dialed a number.
"Talos, I need your help. If necessary, I want you to replace someone."
Later that day, Steve Rogers, in the name of Captain America, publicly announced the evidence before tens of millions of people.
The entire United States was shaken.
If any ordinary person had revealed such evidence on television, it might have caused a bit of turmoil.
But this — coming directly from Captain America — was an earthquake.
After all, compared to the government and its officials, the people trusted the legendary hero in their hearts far more.
So, as soon as the broadcast ended, America erupted into action.
From Congress, the Department of Justice, to state and local police, everyone on Steve Rogers' list was immediately arrested.
Even the military began to move.
Some military leaders personally went to the Justice Department, demanding a thorough investigation into the families and backers behind those exposed.
Why? Because, in their eyes, Captain America was one of their own.
A soldier.
Over the years, much of Captain America's legacy and profits had been quietly absorbed by corrupt politicians.
So when Steve Rogers reappeared, alive and standing for justice, the military had every reason to rally behind him.
After all, he was one of them.
And once the dust settled... well, the military knew how to make use of a hero's name — even if Steve didn't return to service, they could still use his reputation to inspire new recruits.
That day, America trembled because of Steve Rogers.
The upper class — the wealthy, the powerful, the "untouchables" — were all terrified.
After all, who among them could say their hands were truly clean?
Meanwhile...
"Come on, let's toast to our great Captain America!"
Tony Stark raised his glass, grinning proudly.
"If he doesn't show up, it's fine. But when he does, he shakes the whole damn country and makes every rich crook tremble. That's our Captain America!"
Everyone laughed and raised their glasses to Steve.
Steve smiled modestly and shook his head.
"This wasn't my doing alone. It was the Judge who first uncovered the truth. He and the Punisher took down the Blood Parrot Gang and got the evidence.
Tony spent money and effort to help spread it. Natasha and the Punisher went to Eastern Europe to destroy criminal networks and rescue civilians. Matthew sorted all the evidence and prepared the case to lock those bastards away for life.
Without all of you, I couldn't have done this alone.
It reminds me of my Howling Commandos from seventy years ago.
Time has passed, but what we're doing is still the same — fighting for justice and protecting the innocent."
"So, let's toast — to everyone!"
They clinked glasses and drank deeply.
After finishing his wine, Tony Stark leaned back, grinning.
"It feels amazing watching all those arrogant elites get dragged away like dogs. Honestly, it's even better than the parties I had with those Hollywood actresses!"
Natasha chuckled. "It's not over yet. We may have the evidence, but convicting them will still be tough. The families backing them aren't to be underestimated."
"Natasha's right," said Matthew Murdock, putting down his glass. "I'm going to represent the kidnapped women and children as their lawyer — for free.
They'll get the compensation they deserve. And I'll make sure every one of those monsters faces serious charges."
Tony thought for a moment, then nodded.
"If that's the case, you can't do it alone. I'll assemble the most powerful legal team in the country to back you.
Plus, I'll use every media outlet I own to keep the spotlight on this. Steve's job is done — now it's your turn to shine.
Oh, and I'll make sure to show off a little money power while we're at it!"
Tony spread his hands dramatically.
"I got word that after the broadcast, people in several cities started organizing marches, demanding justice for the victims of human trafficking.
But those demonstrations aren't organized properly yet.
Tsk… how can that stand? I'm going to give them a little push — take it to the next level!"
Natasha frowned. "Tony, if you're going to do that, do it quietly, as a third party.
Large-scale protests will be investigated. If anyone finds out you're behind them, you'll land yourself in trouble again."
Tony smirked. "Come on, Natasha. Who am I? I'm Tony Stark. You really think I'm afraid of a little trouble?"
"Let Congress hold another hearing on me if they want — I don't give a damn about those fat, pig-faced politicians!"
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