In a quiet, dimly lit barracks, Dr. Abraham Erskine stands before Steve Rogers, explaining the history of the super-soldier serum and Johann Schmidt’s dangerous ambition.

“…the gods, waiting to be seized by a superior man. So when he hears about my formula and what it can do, he cannot resist. Schmidt must become that superior man,” Erskine says, his voice calm but tinged with regret.

Steve, thin but attentive, sits upright, his eyes fixed on Erskine. “Did it make him stronger?” he asks, his tone steady and curious.

Erskine nods, his expression serious. “Yes. But there were other…effects. The serum was not ready. But more important, the man. The serum amplifies everything that is inside, so good becomes great. Bad becomes worse. This is why you were chosen. Because a strong man who has known power all his life may lose respect for that power, but a weak man knows the value…”