That was about a year ago for me. [ Since then, it's been literal hell, and he's already told Tony about Ultron. But he didn't ask him here to talk about that, which is just pushing into uncomfortable territory. ] During that time, HYDRA had an asset. Used him to try taking out me and Nat. [ He pauses. ] Fury. Anyone HYDRA saw as a threat-- Pierce orchestrated all of it.

[ As far as he knows anyway. Still, they're old memories, and he's frowning now, hesitant as the words form on the tip of his tongue. Eventually, it's just a quiet question in the silence of the room. ] Have you ever heard of the Winter Soldier?