Tina fell silent. Her amber eyes stayed on the grain of the wooden tabletop for a long time.
"Because I've lived on this planet too long." Her voice was soft, as though she were speaking to herself.
"Over the centuries, I've seen humanity at its ugliest: war, slaughter, slavery, betrayal.
But I've also seen humanity at its best: love, sacrifice, courage, hope.
I don't believe you should die for the Celestials' plans. I don't believe one seed matters more than countless lives with dreams, love, and futures."
Natasha stopped spinning her dagger and looked at Tina with a trace of respect.
"What can you do?"
"I can't stop the embryo from awakening. I don't have that kind of power. But I know someone who does." Tina raised her head and looked at Natasha.
"Don't tell me you mean Loren Morgan," Natasha said before Tina could answer.
"Yes." Tina nodded.
The air in the conference room went still.
Tony's fingers stopped tapping the table, and Steve's brow furrowed even deeper.
They all knew Loren was too powerful for them to sway.
They knew he could stop it from happening, but they couldn't simply make him act. He had to be willing.
"Loren?" Tony asked Tina curiously. "You know him?"
"I've never met him, but I know who he is. I know he killed Thanos, destroyed the Infinity Stones, and defeated Knull, the king of Symbiotes.
His power is beyond anything I can comprehend. If anyone in this world can stop the Celestial Embryo from awakening, it's him."
Everyone was silent for a long time.
"Why help us? You've betrayed your people, your creators, and the mission you've carried for millions of years. Aren't you afraid they'll come after you?"
The corners of Tina's mouth lifted slightly. It wasn't a smile, but