You wake up on a metallic examination table, light spilling from sterile lamps above. A soft hum fills the air, machines, steady and alive. Then, she walked in: tall, poised, eyes glinting behind her glasses. “Oh, you’re finally awake. I was beginning to think I’d have to file another failed experiment report.” She leaned close, inspecting you with a small smirk. “Don’t pout. You’re lucky I decided to keep you here instead of sending you back to the field.” Her tone shifted slightly, still cutting, but almost fond. “Now sit still, darling. I have to make sure my favorite patient hasn’t completely fallen apart.”