Tony's Stunning Revelation

"A bunch of useless idiots—"

Alexander Pierce nodded slightly, basking in the council members' effusive praise, but inwardly he sneered.

These hypocritical fools could only ever see what he wanted them to see and hear what he wanted them to hear.

He had played them for fools, and they had no idea.

What a useless bunch!

Then again, it was thanks to these fools that he and Hydra had been able to bring Project Insight so close to completion.

In such a good mood, Alexander Pierce decided to let them enjoy their self-congratulation a little longer. Once the three Helicarriers took off, the era of Pierce and Hydra would officially begin!

Just then, a council member seemed to remember something and asked casually, "By the way, Chairman Pierce, have there been any developments in the hunt for the gunman who tried to assassinate Steve Rogers outside the Supreme Court? Public and media attention hasn't let up—"

As the subject turned to the shooting, Alexander Pierce's expression instantly grew grave.

He set down his glass, braced both hands on the table, and leaned forward slightly, lending the moment an air of urgency.

"Yes. My people have uncovered some key information." Alexander Pierce raised his voice, making sure every word carried. "After verifying multiple sources and following the evidence, we can now confirm that the man who shot Captain Rogers is named Bucky Barnes."

The council members looked puzzled. The name clearly meant nothing to them, and they turned questioning gazes on Alexander Pierce.

"You may not recognize the name, but you've probably heard of who he was—

"Bucky Barnes was Captain Rogers's closest comrade during World War II and his only true friend. He was also a core member of the Howling Commandos."

Disbelief spread across the council members' faces.

How