Sirens pulse through the dark hallway of Sky-Tower. Smoke curls through the vents. Chloe slides behind a shattered support beam as footsteps echo toward her — heavy, controlled, deliberate.
The Super-Soldier steps into view.
His eyes glow with that same cold, unnatural light as the others. He raises his shield slowly, metallic edge gleaming under the emergency lights.
Super-Soldier (controlled): “Stand down. You cannot escape.”
Chloe’s hands tremble — not in fear, but in desperation. “Please… I know you’re in there.”
He advances.
Super-Soldier: “Resistance will be neutralized.”
She steps out, heart pounding. “Then hit me. If you really think I’m a threat… hit me.”
For a second — a fraction — his steps falter.
Something cracks in the glow of his eyes.
Super-Soldier (strained): “Ch… loe…”
She gasps. He drops to one knee, clutching his head as the mind-control device flickers with sparks.
Chloe rushes to him, pressing her hand against the small metal node hidden beneath his collar.
Chloe: “Come on… come back to me. I can’t do this alone.”
The glow in his eyes shatters.
He exhales sharply, collapsing against the wall.
Super-Soldier (free): “…They took the whole Tower.” He looks up at her, breath shaking. “Your father… the Warrior… the Spy… they’re all under control.”
Chloe nods, tears burning her eyes. “I know. But I got you back. That means I can get the rest.”
He pushes himself to his feet, steadying himself on her shoulder.
Super-Soldier: “You saved me.” A beat. “I’m not leaving your side again.”
The hallway shakes as thunder roars from above.
Super-Soldier: “They’re coming.” He grips his shield. “You ready, kid?”
Chloe draws in a long breath, shoulders squaring.
Chloe: “Yeah. Let’s bring my family home.”