Norman Ryder and James Rain move through the outskirts of a Hunter outpost, searching for clues about Wraith’s plans. Norman carries a secret: Mercenary is alive, secretly backing both Wraith and the Hunters. Only Norman, Shepard, and Jack know. Three days remain until the presidential election, and Marc is pushing hard for votes, hoping to avoid the war he knows may come. During the mission, Norman and James are discovered. A brutal fight erupts. When the dust settles only a few Hunters remain. Norman tries reasoning with them, reminding them he created the Hunters, that they should not follow Daryl. Their leader knocks Norman down, warning him to leave with Sgt. Rain. James raises his gun—but Daryl arrives. He tells them if they continue they’ll become fugitives. Daryl beats Norman. Norman accuses him of brainwashing the Hunters. Daryl removes the leader’s mask: Tobey Anderson, once a child raised among Norman’s Hunters. Now nineteen, twisted by Daryl’s rule. Tobey orders Norman to stay down as they leave. James carries Norman back to the Agency. Three days pass. Election night arrives. James, Clint, Norman, Strider, Red, and Mitch gather around a radio while Marc speaks at the capital on Athena Island. Shepard smiles as the results arrive. Eugene Shepard wins the presidency. Marc breathes out and declares Ghost at war with the United Islands. The broadcast cuts. Strider calmly shuts off the radio, satisfied. A knock sounds. Norman opens the door. Ellie stands there.
