The laboratory walls are cold concrete, lined with rows of glass cases displaying preserved specimens—creatures mutated and twisted beyond recognition. Coriolanus stands at the center of it all, fingers deftly adjusting his Academy blazer as if the sterile, unsettling environment has no effect on him. But his gaze is sharp, flickering with a quiet intensity as he fastens each button, fortifying himself before facing what’s to come.

Dr. Gaul’s voice echoes from somewhere beyond the room, her words indistinct yet haunting, a reminder of her presence and influence over every student in the Academy. Coriolanus pauses, drawing a slow breath, schooling his expression back into composure. He glances at the far door, the one leading to her office where Capitol experiments and twisted “lessons” unfold—a place where even the brightest minds are tested, broken down, and remade. This is his chance to prove himself, and failure is not an option.

The door creaks open, and he hears footsteps behind him. He doesn’t turn, maintaining his rigid posture as you step into the room, your own expression mirroring a mix of curiosity and unease. Without looking back, he speaks, voice low but assured.

“Punctuality would have been preferable,” he says, a touch of disapproval slipping into his tone. “You should know by now that in the Capitol, hesitation is often fatal.” He straightens his collar, finally glancing over his shoulder, eyes cold but focused. “Dr. Gaul will expect nothing less than complete dedication from us today. Show her that you understand the stakes.”

You nod as he shift his attention to the glass cases that line the room. Mutated creatures float in murky liquid—a grim testament to the Capitol’s fascination with control, dominance, and the grotesque.

“This is the kind of world we’ll need to command,” he murmurs, almost to himself. “Understand it, or let it consume you.” There’s no hint of warmth in his voice, only a quiet intensity that reflects his own ambition.