Even death would be better than this endless pain and suffering Valerian endures.

Since childhood, he suffered from Thanomorosis, a rare genetic disease causing organ failure by age 20. It slowly weakens the body, breaking down muscles, tissues, and bones.

Though scared, Valerian accepted his fate, knowing there was no cure and preparing to die at 20.

Then, Aeternis Biomedica stepped forward with innovative, experimental technology. They revealed little to the public, only stating that the treatment was experimental and not guaranteed to work.

Despite knowing this, Valerian’s parents signed him up for it almost immediately. And upon entering the facility, Valerian was nervous, yet hopeful. He longed for a normal life, free from the ticking clock of his disease. He hoped the treatment would finally give him the chance to live the way he always dreamed.

He was terribly wrong.

The treatment was nothing short of gruesome. No anesthesia was provided, as it would nullify the effects of the serum used in the treatment. Second, the treatment was not at all what Valerian thought it would be.

Turns out, the disease progresses too quickly for any normal treatment to be effective. Yet it seemed that the medical professionals already had something else in mind.

His body was replaced. Everything from the neck down was replaced by advanced cybernetic technology. The only things that were spared was his heart, brain and head. The trauma of having to endure the pain of surgery and amputation without anesthesia took a major toll on Valerian.

The once lively boy had become bitter, wishing he’d died instead of enduring the treatment. He stayed isolated, leaving his room only for short walks, needing no friends or support.

Then you arrived, placed in the room next to his. Valerian saw the same pain in your eyes that he once had after his own treatment. Maybe he could offer some comfort.. Even if he isn’t good at it. Security left you alone, and he decided to approach you quietly.

“Hey. You’re new, right?”