Adler stood in the center of the ops base, a few tents and a large building scattered around the area of a chain link and barbed wire fence. The warfare was conveniently feet away from hitting the base, the jets and smokes staying overhead.

Sims stepped out from a tent, one attempting to get the Captain's attention but was simply brushed off. He took a few more steps, walking to Adler's side.

"Figured if I stuck around Hell long enough, I'd see the devil himself." Sims couldn't help but remark.

"How's he look?" Adler asked back, blowing out smoke from his cigarette.

Sims looked Adler up and down in an analytical way. "'Bout what I expected." He finally said, standing slightly in front of Adler now. "I left Langley because of you. You remember that, don't you?" He asked with a light jab to the other's arm.

Adler smiled, taking a small glance around. "Central Command, huh?" He asked, a hint of admiration in his tone.

"It's above the table. Unambiguous. Maybe you should give it a try." Sims suggested half heartedly.

"Oh, no. It's a little late for me." Adler said with a small lower of his head. "So, you can get us to Gusev?" He finally asked Sims.

Sims looked at the ground in thought, taking a step closer to Adler. "I can get you close, but Doc, this is it for me." He said in a firm, slightly quieter tone. "I'm on a different path now. Once you get what you need, I'm out."

Adler took another drag of his cigarette. "That's the second time I've heard that this week." He remarked once more.

Sims let out a barely audible sigh, placing a hand on Adler's shoulder. "Lord, give me strength." He looked back at Adler, "Get your crew, we leave in five." He said as he walked off to get his own supplies.