The person beside Director Nick Fury was none other than Captain America Steve Rogers, recently awakened from his frozen state.
Having just woken up, Steve was still disoriented and temporarily staying under S.H.I.E.L.D.'s protection.
His appearance had already caused sleepless nights for countless people.
Numerous organizations tried to win him over.
Captain America's influence was unmatched — gaining his support was equivalent to winning over the populace itself.
But Director Nick Fury, ever the shrewd strategist, wasn't about to hand over this bargaining chip easily.
Lobbyists from every corner were sent packing.
S.H.I.E.L.D. didn't care what organization they belonged to; while under U.S. jurisdiction nominally, it operated as a global force.
Steve, dressed in his star-spangled uniform, watched a god-like, demon-like figure on a video feed and felt a deep shock.
"Am I already obsolete?" he sighed. "Why does someone like this exist in the World?"
The video showed Leo's enemies collapsing with laughter, bullets raining down but never touching him.
An invisible shield stopped the torrent of projectiles, and with a mere gesture, time and space seemed to freeze.
It overturned Steve's worldview entirely.
In his era, he was a near-superhuman soldier. But this? Was this a god?
"Director Fury, am I… phased out? Does this era no longer need Captain America Steve Rogers?" Steve asked, crestfallen, seeking reassurance.
Fury had to tread carefully.
Calling him obsolete would crush him; ignoring his fears would leave Steve vulnerable.
His goal was to stabilize Steve and recruit him into S.H.I.E.L.D., forming the backbone of a new Avengers team.
He placed a firm hand on Steve's shoulder. "I don't know how strong he is, but his inner strength is nowhere near yours. He won't benefit America — he'll only cause trouble. But you, Captain America Steve, are the hero the country and its people need."
"Strength alone does not measure true power," Fury continued.
"His strength is personal. Yours inspires a nation. The American people need you. Pull yourself together, Captain Rogers!"
Fury's eloquence ignited Steve's passion. For the first time since awakening, he found his purpose: to serve America again.
"I understand, Director Fury! Super Soldier Steve Rogers is ready!" Steve declared with vigor.
"Good, good, good!" Fury smiled, his wrinkles almost trapping flies.
His grin revealed his white teeth, dazzling in the office light. "Your return is a blessing. Welcome back, soldier Steve Rogers!"
Steve felt moved to tears. The familiar call of 'soldier' made him recall the burning passion of his youth.
He returned the salute with force. "Yes, sir!"
Fury's plan had succeeded — Steve was officially on the team.
Regarding Leo's actions, Fury could only observe for now. If needed, Carol Danvers could be called back.
"Captain, you should rest. Agent Sharon Carter will accompany you to help adapt to this era," Fury said.
Sharon Carter? Steve blinked. Peggy Carter — was she still alive?
"What is Sharon Carter's relationship to Peggy? Is Peggy still alive?" he asked nervously, thinking of the unfinished chapter of his life with Peggy.
Fury smiled. "Sharon is Peggy's niece. And yes, Peggy is still alive. You can see her — she'll be thrilled to see you. No regrets."
Steve's eyes widened. "Really?"
"Of course," Fury confirmed.
"Hahaha! This is amazing! I have to see her now!" Steve exclaimed, ecstatic. His face flushed with joy.
"Alright, I'll let you go," Fury said, calling out, "Agent Sharon Carter, report in."
The door opened. A beautiful agent walked in — bearing a resemblance to Peggy.
"Reporting for duty, Agent Sharon Carter!" she said.
Steve thought wryly to himself: he'd gotten both the aunt and the niece.
If Leo knew, he would certainly admit defeat.
...
Author's Note:
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