With Nick Fury presumed dead, S.H.I.E.L.D. was left leaderless. In these special times, it was only natural for Minister Pierce, who held the same authority as the Director, to temporarily assume the Director's duties.
Thus, he was an extremely busy man. Aside from the necessary time spent communicating with the Council in his own office, he spent most of his time in Nick Fury's former office, presiding over the overall situation. He was now standing before that enormous floor-to-ceiling window, gazing out at the scenery just as Nick Fury used to.
Although his own office had the same kind of window, a different view offered different scenery. Looking at things from another angle had its own unique charm.
What a pity, Nick. I knew you were exceptionally capable. I was even jealous of your abilities. I also knew you had countless tricks up your sleeve, but you were too inflexible and failed to see reality for what it truly was. Otherwise, we would not have ended up in this life-or-death struggle.
Pierce spent some time mourning his former friend, but at most, it was merely the sorrow of one creature grieving another's death. His mood was not bad right now. The Council had finally settled on the exact launch date for Project Insight. Victory—the day that would bring true security and peace to this world, the day that would bring it a new order—was already within reach.
Captain America and Black Widow were still making trouble, and they truly were difficult to deal with. Several teams had been sent after them, yet every one had returned empty-handed. He had even sacrificed Zola over it.
Zola... Pierce recalled that meritorious old predecessor of his. He had played an indelible role in Project Insight, and his sacrifice had been great and proud.