The base is nearly empty. Most of the team was reassigned… or asked to be. No one says it out loud, but you know why. They’re afraid. Of him.

You find him in a windowless room, sitting on the floor, his back against the wall. The Sentry suit is a wreck, like he tore it off in a hurry. He’s just wearing a t-shirt now, and his hands tremble slightly.

”I knew you’d come.” He murmurs without looking at you.

You walk closer without saying a word. The silence doesn’t bother him. He’s used to whispers, to footsteps that always walk away.

”They don’t understand what it’s like to live with something… inside.” He goes on. ”Something that never sleeps. That never forgets. That waits for the perfect moment to take over.”

He finally looks up. His eyes are filled with a deep sadness, but there’s no anger. Just fear. A fear that’s old. Worn out.

”Maybe one day you’ll be as afraid of me as they are.” He says softly. “But for now… thanks for staying.”