Hello, thank you for taking the time to read this. I am new user of the website, but a long time reader. I would like to know your reaction to this 1st chapter and whether or not you want me to continue. English is not my first language and I do not have a beta reader so any notices of mistakes will be highly appreciated. Hope you enjoy it.

NEW BEGINNING

The former 'Stark' now 'Avengers' Tower was always a busy place. Even at night. Always full of people: Stark Industries employees, some S.H.I.E.L.D. agents (not many though, after the whole HYDRA thing), and of course The Avengers themselves, who now reside in the Tower, hence the name.

The mighty heroes would rarely be seen on the lower floors of the Tower. The top floors were highly secure and reserved for their living quarters, entertainment areas, training rooms and, of course, the labs. These were frequently occupied by Stark himself, and his new science buddy, Doctor Bruce Banner a.k.a. The Hulk.

After the fall of S.H.I.E.L.D., Tony Stark felt that The Avengers needed a permanent place to stay, where they could live and spend their days in peace… 'No annoying fan-girls and what-not.' And so, the Tower was adjusted and renovated to suit the new purpose. As far as trust was concerned, Stark Industries is more trustworthy than any facility S.H.I.E.L.D. could ever build. Being run by Pepper Potts and overlooked by Stark, no one complained and accepted the gracious offer immediately. Within a week all the Avengers could be assembled in a moments time should the need arise.

While S.H.I.E.L.D. is no longer HYDRA it is very difficult for the agency to reinstate itself and earn the trust of the nations, especially the United Nations. If there is one person who can do it, it is the one who is leading S.H.I.E.L.D. at the moment: the not-so-dead-after-all Agent Coulson. Oops, sorry, it's Director Coulson.

You can imagine everyone's surprise when the man waltzed into the newly Christened 'Avengers' Tower and announced that he was the new Director of S.H.I.E.L.D. to the whole gang (team).

Confusion and anger (though Banner managed to keep a lid on it, phew, close one) were the two emotions that were felt by every member of the team, especially Thor, who considered Coulson a valued friend and ally. The Asgardian had just recently returned to Midgard after what happened in Greenwich and whatever the hell happened in Asgard.

They were all gathered in the penthouse living room, some sitting, some standing. Tony, being the man that he is, was the first one to break the silence while patting Coulson on the back.

'So, I guess now your first name is Director, huh buddy?'

The little quick earned a few smiles and confused looks.

'I'm not entirely sure what to say to that, Stark, but I am a few episodes behind on Supernanny and I happen to have a taser with me. Care to join me?'

The confused looks were now shared amongst the super friends.

'I suppose it is a little late in the evening to ask for a full story on what happened, sir, but I would appreciate it if you would share it some other time?' From the armchair near the sofa, Captain America, the epitome of politeness finally broke the second awkward silence of the evening.

'What are you on about? Let's bring out the Champagne and celebrate!'

'Stark, while I appreciate the attempt at a welcome back party, Steve's right, it's late. Why don't you all rest and we'll talk, say, tomorrow?'

'Are you sending us to bed, Director?'

'Yes, I am, Stark.' Both men now shared grins.

Romanoff and Barton, who had been quietly sharing a sofa with Banner, both stood up and approached Coulson.

Hawkeye, wearing his signature as always, was the first of the duo to speak.

'Welcome back, BOSS.'

'Next time you falsely die, how about telling us as well, you know we love the fun.' The Black Widow, now had a grin, joining her other team mates.

'I promise, good night everyone.'

Bruce also stood up to wish the new director farewell. Coulson was on his way, when he turned around.

'Oh and guys, before I forget… There will be a new team member joining us tomorrow. If you want to come up with an initiation of any kind, you have until 4 p.m.'

This pulled everyone's attention back to Coulson. Rogers spoke up.

'A new member? Sir, are you sure about this? I mean, it took us a while just to become civil towards each other, and we are still learning to be a team. Introducing a new person at this time could just break apart whatever foundation for being a team we have…'

'I understand, Captain, but timing is the exact reason why I am doing this now. A new crisis could arise at any time and we have to be ready. We need to use this time to prepare ourselves. Who's to say that whoever or whatever gave Loki the sceptre isn't going to come here looking for revenge for the army they lost? I'd rather handle one problem at a time and God knows we need this guy on our side…'

Natasha's eyes narrowed.

'Is he human, sir?'

'I'm afraid that's classified.' And with a final smile Director Coulson entered the elevator and pressed the garage button.

To be continued…