Tony played with a piece of the chocolate chip in his fingers as he listened. Xavin's story was exactly like the kind of sci-fi tales he'd latch onto as a child--though more to imagine himself as a brave space pioneer than the interpersonal intrigue.

'You get to live that dream yet, Iron Man. Most people wish they could go out in that sort of blaze of glory.'

His internal monologue was a poor soother. He lowered the snack and rubbed his face, reminding himself to stay anchored in the here and now. Xavin's story was as deserving of a listening ear as any other.

"Enemy's first mistake: leaving someone only presumed dead."