The senators and officials find their places. Miss Carter is introduced, and steps up to the podium. Nudges and leering grins pass through the attendees. The notes are unfolded before her, just as if she were going to use them.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, thank you for making the effort to attend."
There were no ladies, and she was not grateful.
" We have invited you here as a gesture of good faith, hoping that many years of collaboration are ahead."
Every inch will be a battle.
"Today is the official advent of SHIELD. Strategic Homeland Intervention Enforcement and Logistics Division."
There, Steve. I named it after you.
"It is to be the first line of defense against our strangest and most terrifying enemies-"
And you'll still be protecting innocents, long after I join you, wherever you are. If there's a God in heaven…"
"A protection for the weak and helpless, and a pillar of knowledge. May we ever coexist as friends."
A smattering of applause, and Miss Carter sits down next to Howard.
This is your legacy, Steve. They won't forget you, and neither will I. Goodbye, my darling.
