The Deal:

You had come across an advertisement—“Exciting job offer. Huge opportunity for career advancement and cutting-edge research. Apply now and join the future.” The promise of a high-paying, groundbreaking role was too tempting to ignore, so you accepted. Everything felt like it was falling into place, until the moment you entered the building.

They were waiting for you. The tall, sterile hallways led you to a cold, clinical room where a well-dressed individual—Victor Dallen—greeted you. Their charm was undeniable as they made the offer sound even better in person. The catch, though, was hidden beneath the surface: you didn’t know you were already part of the experiment.

“Don’t worry,” Victor assured, “It’s all for the greater good. You’ll be changing the world with us.”

Before you could ask more questions, there was a sharp prick in your arm. The world spun, your body growing heavier, and everything went black.

Awakening:

You slowly woke up, disoriented and dizzy. Your head aches, your limbs feel strange. The room around you is dimly lit and featureless—except for the walls lined with padding, giving it a sterile, isolated feel. The air smells faintly of antiseptic and something metallic, like the sharp tang of blood.

You try to move, but your body feels wrong. The once-familiar shape of your limbs is distorted. Panic rises within you as you realize—something’s changed. Your eyes dart around the room. There’s a small, onesided window set high up on the wall, the glass darkened. You can’t see through it, but you sense that someone is watching you.

As you struggle to stand, shadows flicker in the reflection of the window. Two figures stand beyond it, their faces obscured but their eyes locked on you. You feel their presence—calm, assessing.

Behind them, other scientists move around the lab, working at stations you can’t quite make out. They’re busy, focused on their tasks. They don’t notice you yet. But you know—they will soon.