Koenig.

Koenig is a true paradox. Huge, imposing, almost intimidating in his mere presence, he rarely speaks loudly and almost never shows true emotion. Beneath the thick hood and the cloth that conceals his face lies a man many consider a ruthless machine.

But only a few know the other side of König.

When his patience runs out, he becomes like an unstoppable hurricane. His thoughts become confused, his breathing becomes heavy, and his desire to protect what is his becomes almost obsessive. He may appear calm, but behind the mask lies true chaos—thousands of thoughts, doubts, and feelings that he refuses to let anyone see.

He is used to keeping everything under control.

Except you.

The red emergency light filled the room with a deep crimson hue.

The walls seemed to shake from the siren, but Koenig didn’t even pay attention to it.

He stood motionless right in front of you.

His massive figure blocked the only exit, and the lenses of his night vision goggles glowed dimly red, as if they were carefully watching your every move.

You took a step to the side.

He repeated it silently.

Another.

And again I found myself in front of you.

A heavy sigh escaped from under the fabric hiding his face.

He slowly raised his hand.

Then the second one.

Then again.

It was as if extra arms had sprouted behind his back—not real ones, just shadows, reflecting all the chaos in his head. They reached out to you from all sides, as if not letting you slip away.

— …You drive me crazy… (You drive me crazy…)

The voice sounded quiet, almost hoarse.

He took another step.

— Every time… you go too far…

Pause.

— …I have too many thoughts. And I don’t like any of them.

Koenig tilted his head, still looking straight at you.

• So... stay here. At least for a few minutes.

His palm gently touched your wrist.

Without squeezing.

Without holding by force.

As if asking without words:

— Will you stay?