The Soldat, The Captain and The Asset

2.11: The Fight

Later at the Triskelion where the Helicarriers are being held. The space is vast and wide, brightly lit and a hive of activity as people go back and forth, getting ready to activate Project Insight. "We are in final launch sequence." A deep voice on the PA says, getting everyone's attention for a moment.

In the control station, multiple people are doing the final checks on the Helicarriers. "We are go on guidance." They say.

"All personnel to launch station." A female voice announces over the PA system.

— — — — —

Meanwhile at the entrance to the Triskelion, Pierce is meeting the World Security Council as they arrive at the Triskelion. They are all wearing suits as Pierce walks up to them, the man, likely a guard, standing behind them holding a briefcase. "And how was your flight?" Pierce asks them, looking over at all of them, smiling ever so slightly when he notices Sasha taking Sitwell's place in the meeting.

"Lovely." Hawley replies. "The ride from the airport less so." She admits, looking away slightly.

"Sadly, SHIELD can't control everything." Pierce replies dryly, trying to give them some humour.

"Including Captain America." Rockwell reminds him, his eyes firm and looking at him.

Pierce doesn't reply at his remark, walking over to one of the guards who hands him a case containing four pins. "This facility is biometrically controlled, and these will give you unrestricted access." Pierce explains handing to them. He looks over at Sasha. "I take it you are already wearing yours?" She nods, showing a pin that is ever so slightly different from the others.

— — — — —

Meanwhile in the project headquarters, agents are getting every set up for liftoff. "I've been parking there for two months." One of the techs says, talking casually with his co-worker to pass the time.

"But it's his spot." The co-worker argues.

"So where's he been?" He asks.

"I think Afghanistan."

The technician leans towards the microphone. "Negative, DT-6. The pattern is full." He informs whoever is listening before looking back at his colleague. "Well, he could have said something..." He groans slightly, lifting his hand up to his ear when he hears a sharp noise come through the ear piece. "Ow!"

"Must be the dish." The other one remarks.

"I'll check it out." He says.

"Triskelion command request we clear the area for launch." A voice says.

The tech stands up from his seat, stretching slightly. He walks over to the door and opens it up, coming face to face with Steve, Sam and Hill, the latter of the three pointing their guns at him. "Excuse us." Steve says firmly and the tech holds his hands up and steps aside to let them enter, watching them go towards the command desk, his breathing quick.

— — — — —

Meanwhile, on one of the upper levels, Pierce is talking with the World Security Council. "I know the road hasn't exactly been smooth, and some of you would have gladly kicked me out of the car along the way." He tells them, and Sasha makes the smallest smile at the reference. "Finally we're here, and the world should be grateful."

— — — — —

As this is happening, Steve looks over the command desk. Steve looks at the controls for the PA and leans forward, pressing the button to activate the microphone. "Attention, all SHIELD agents. This is Steve Rogers." Steve starts to say over the PA system, his voice not fully commanding, but more motivating and kind than firm. "You've heard a lot about me over the last few days, some of you were even ordered to hunt me down. But I think it's time you know the truth. SHIELD is not what we thought it was, it's been taken over by HYDRA. Alexander Pierce is their leader. The STRIKE and Insight crew are HYDRA as well. I don't know how many more, but I know they're in the building. They could be standing right next to you. They almost have what they want: absolute control. They shot Nick Fury and it won't end there. If you launch those Helicarriers today, HYDRA will be able to kill anyone that stands in their way, unless we stop them. I know I'm asking a lot, but the price of freedom is high, it always has been, and it's a price I'm willing to pay. And if I'm the only one, then so be it. But I'm willing to bet I'm not."