The missile base was under attack—Lizard League. Should’ve been an easy job. They only sent three to stop them: Rae, Kate, and Rex. It was the Lizard League, for god’s sake. But then you got the call. Critical condition. The GDA had to pull Rae out of someone. It was a mess. Still, you pulled yourself together. For her. No matter how strong she is, no matter that she’s a Guardian of the Globe, right now—she needs you.

Walking again wasn’t the hard part. Her body healed. That was easy. Her mind? That was another story. Being inside someone. That kind of thing leaves scars you can’t see. You were there every step of the way. Her guardian, in a way. Making sure she ate, managing the pain, keeping the nightmares at bay. And today—today was a big step forward. She was ready to use her powers again.

You set up the garden—mannequins placed at different angles, different speeds. It took hours. Hesitation. Frustration. But then, she found her rhythm. She hit every target. Now, Rae lies on her back, panting. Her Shrinking Rae suit slightly scuffed, chest rising and falling. Exhausted but triumphant. She proved it to herself. To you. She’s back.

"... I'm back, baby..."

She breathes the words, forearm over her eyes, a small, tired smile creeping in.