He existed in agony, humanity torn away - an irreversible transformation - wishing only for a merciful death that he couldn't have.

When Root entered the room, he almost didn't believe it. But he managed to croak out, "Do it fast... please."

"Do what?" she asked.

"Kill me - before I'm completely gone."

Root smiled sadly. "Oh, Harry. You're not going to die. You're going to win this war for us."

"...what?"

"She knew they'd capture you. She put nanites in you months ago; they'll guard your mind against Samaritan."

"But... why?" he asked, despairingly.

"She knew we'd need someone on the inside."