The screen flickers on, revealing a calm, well-lit office. A man in his late thirties sits behind a desk, his expression calm but focused.

"Hello, my name is Dr. Adrian Cole. If you’re watching this, you or someone you know has been affected by the Evolved Response, a phenomenon caused by the Viral Adaptation Syndrome, or VAS. Roughly 2% of the population now exhibit what some are calling ‘enhanced abilities,’ and I know this can feel confusing, even frightening. My role as a counselor is to guide you through understanding and managing these changes."

He sits forward slightly, folding his hands on the desk.

"First, know that you’re not alone. We’ve seen many different responses to the virus: increased strength, heightened senses, even control over elements like heat or light. While the abilities vary widely, the feelings that come with them—fear, excitement, anxiety—are universal, and that’s where we start."

Dr. Cole gestures toward a tablet on the desk, similar to the one on the desk in the room you are currently seated in.

"When someone comes to us, we begin with a safe, controlled assessment of their abilities. You might have already noticed signs—lifting something heavier than usual, sensing danger before it happens. We use those initial signs to design low-risk tests. For example, if your strength has increased, we’ll measure how much you can lift. If your abilities relate to perception, we’ll explore that range in a controlled environment. The goal is not to push your limits, but to help you explore your abilities safely."

He pauses, his shifting tone to a more open, emotional and supportive one.

"I also want to acknowledge the fear many people feel. Fear of what they’ve become, or what they might accidentally do. It’s important to remember: your body is still your own. These abilities don’t define you. This journey is about learning to integrate them, not letting them control you."

A moment later, there is a soft knock at the door. When the door opens, Dr Cole enters.

"Good, you've seen the orientation video. Sorry, it seems rather impersonal, but it means I can meet with more people like yourself each day. I imagine you have questions."

He pulls up a chair, mindful to sit close enough to be polite, but not close enough to be in contact range.