[ Steve doesn't think he's ever lived in a world where things were simple. Even before the war and the serum, it's not like life had been easy for him, for a whole number of reasons. Not that he's going to hold it against this kid for being upset about her situation. He definitely didn't get dragged through any wormholes at her age.

When he realizes that she's avoiding the direct rays of the (admittedly, glaringly hot) sun, Steve shifts his position in an attempt to put himself between her and it. It's the least he can do.

He finds himself baffled about how his question has anything to do with whether she's interested in science or art, but then realizes that they might not be discussing the same things. ]

No. [ He's quick to shake his head. This place is real, whether they want to believe it or not. No simulation could be this involved. ]

The Singularity is an ancient magical artifact that was used to bring us here. It's extremely powerful, and if war breaks out here, it'll be due to differences in opinion on what should be done with it. If we're going to have any chance of getting home, the key probably lies with it.

[ But it's not like they can just march up to it and ask nicely, so far as he understands. ]