[Prior's clapped a hand over the ear on the side John fired past. He can still hear the echo of the report under his palm, though he bites back a Jesus, was that really necessary, out of understanding that - somewhere in John's head, he's doing what it takes to keep Prior safe.

But Jesus, was that really necessary? He's still getting used to being half blind without being left half-deaf, too.

But, of course, his vision's 20-20 for now. And as he gets closer to Sumner, he could wish it wasn't. He looks like pain given human form. It would be easier if there weren't still something awake and aware behind the eyes. It's not hard to see why this haunts John.]

Is that how it usually works? You go and it's all over for another shitty night? Or do your eyes stay closed and you end up right back here?

[This whole play-through's familiar territory for John, and not just from his past. Not flinching over ghostly, lecturing figured from the future was enough of a clue to that.

So something needs to change or nothing will. Prior makes himself look at Sumner again.]

Oh, you really look like you could use a rest. [With some degree of will, he makes himself offer out a hand to the malformed creature that used to be a man. The offer's not taken, but the suggestion is. Prior watches as Sumner sinks from his knees to the floor.

He's dying. He's dying, but not the way he was. His bones fill out with flesh, ashy skin turns healthy pink. It's like watching one of those stop motion movies of flowers blooming, the whole process reduced to seconds.

And then he's still, and gone, but whole.

That's when Prior looks away.]