"They're still alive. They're just dreaming."
"Dreaming..." Fury gritted his teeth. "Robbed of their lives and left to dream in coffins? How merciful."
"Then what are you after?" Fury demanded. "If all you want is to survive, why not stay hidden in Chernobyl? Why infiltrate governments? Why replace their leaders?"
"For the future."
Talos's voice was firm.
"We want to infiltrate the leadership of every nation and change humanity's view of Skrulls from the top down."
"We'll shape public opinion and change policies."
"Our ultimate goal is to have governments acknowledge the Skrulls and grant us a legal, permanent homeland on Earth."
"When the time is right, we'll reveal ourselves. By then, humans will be used to us, and the law will protect us."
"We'll establish a nation on this planet, become part of its political system, and eventually live alongside humanity in peace."
"That's my plan, Fury. A bloodless revolution."
"Motherfucker! You're out of your goddamn mind, Talos."
"If your plan succeeds, I doubt it'll stop at peaceful coexistence."
"Once you hold power and rule this planet... you think you'll settle for 'a piece of land'?"
"Humans will become second-class citizens. Slaves! Or worse!"
"That's colonization, Talos. Dress it up however you like. It's still colonization."
Talos fell silent.
Perhaps he truly hadn't thought that far ahead. Or perhaps, deep down, that was exactly what he wanted.
"I want to put a bullet in you right now," Fury growled.
Talos didn't move. He only watched him.
"Do it, Fury. If it'll make you feel better."
Fury's finger rested on the trigger, trembling slightly.
Twenty years of friendship. Countless battles fought side by side.
He couldn't bring himself to pull it.
The million Skrulls would still be there. Kill Talos, and they would choose another leader. If that leader was