In the United States, an invisible cloud hung over everyone at S.H.I.E.L.D.
S.H.I.E.L.D.'s mission to Wakanda had failed, and its losses had been devastating. Not only had many of its Superhuman fighters fallen, but Nick, the Director of S.H.I.E.L.D., had also died for good.
This was undoubtedly a crushing blow to the entire organization. Its efficiency plummeted, and headquarters nearly ground to a complete halt.
Fortunately, the United States leadership reacted swiftly, appointing a new Director and stabilizing the situation. That new Director was Captain America, Steve Rogers.
For one thing, Steve was an American hero, a pillar of inspiration for the entire nation. For another, his service record was outstanding. Even setting aside everything he had done since waking up, he had earned tremendous distinction fighting for the United States during World War II.
So, no matter how one looked at it, he was the best candidate for the position.
After successfully taking office, the Captain's first act was to request that the leadership impose sanctions on Tony and Stark Industries, citing Tony's murder of Nick.
The Captain held little hope of sanctioning Tony himself. He knew how powerful Tony was, after all, and defeating him through rules was simply impossible. His real goal was to sanction Stark Industries and weaken Tony's power base.
The United States leadership took his request very seriously, convening Congress as soon as he submitted it.
Stark Industries had far too many connections for even the occupant of the White House to decide the matter alone. The decision could only be pushed through Congress.
The outcome was hardly surprising. Of the hundred-plus members of Congress, two-thirds voted against it. Of those remaining, one-third abstained, one-third voted in favor, and the last third did not attend at all for various reasons.
With double-digit votes opposing