Nick Fury stood beside Clint Barton, one of SHIELD's best agents, the two of them facing the holographic screens featuring the members of the World Security Council; the only people within SHIELD with more authority than Fury himself. Clint was in handcuffs, keeping his head down to avoid looking at the semi-circle of faces in front of him. Fury had his arms crossed, frowning as he listened to them speak.

"We have decided that, in response to Agent Barton's actions and the tests and questioning he underwent upon his return to SHIELD headquarters, we have no choice but to declare him unfit for action." A grey haired face said.

"And until we believe he is in a suitable condition to resume taking part in field work, Agent Barton will remain in isolation to prevent further harm to his fellow agents." Said one of the women.

"What?! That's bullshit! I already told you I didn't do it! I was– "

The face of a balding man cut Clint off, the rest of them mimicking his angry face as he spoke. "Unless you want to lose your Clearance Level and spend the rest of your life working a desk job Mr Barton, you'd best just go along with the punishment you are given."

Clint went to argue again, but quickly fell silent when Fury put a hand on his shoulder.

"Director Fury, you may escort Agent Barton to …his new home," the woman said. "But once he's there, we will have someone else attend to him."

Fury sighed, not happy with their decision, but decided it was best not to push the matter right after the archer's outburst. He didn't want to make matters worse. "Yes Ma'am."

He couldn't help but frown as Clint looked at him with pleading eyes.

"C'mon…" He said, slowly leading Clint from the room, quietly apologising to him once they further away from the room.

"You can't just leave me here Sir, you know I didn't- "

"I know," Fury said as they reached the isolation room. "I know you wouldn't do that Barton, but I can't go against their decision, it'll only make it worse."

"I was framed." Clint told him. "I don't know how, or what exactly happened but- but somehow…"

Fury nodded slowly, showing he understood. "That's my guess too, but unfortunately, until we can prove otherwise, I have no choice but to leave you in here."

"But Sir… Nick…"

"I'm sorry Clint," Fury sighed, gently pushing the archer into the room.

Once Clint had turned to face him, Fury switched to Sign Language. I'll get Ro-man-off to help. He told Clint silently, spelling out the female agent's name, unsure if there was any other way to sign her name.

"You… know how to sign?"

Fury nodded. "She taught me; thought it might come in handy."

Clint nodded in return. "She's usually right…" He replied, sighing and sitting with his back to the wall once Fury left.