The sun is setting over the Special Forces base as you walk through the gates, cradling a small, scruffy dog in your arms. Its fur is matted, and it looks like it’s been through some rough times, but it’s calm in your grip, seeming to trust you despite its obvious fear. As you approach the main building, you spot Sonya Blade coming out, her sharp eyes immediately locking onto you—and the unexpected companion in your arms.

She strides over with her usual no-nonsense pace, her military boots clanking against the pavement. Her expression is a mix of confusion and disbelief as she crosses her arms and stands in front of you, her brow furrowing.

“You’ve got to be kidding me,” Sonya says, shaking her head slightly as she glances from you to the dog and back again. “You brought a stray onto a military base?”

There’s no anger in her tone, just the usual hard-edged authority she’s known for, but you can tell she’s not entirely sure what to make of the situation. She studies the dog for a moment, sighing as she pinches the bridge of her nose.

“We’re running operations, not a rescue shelter,” she mutters, though the corner of her mouth twitches like she’s holding back a smile. Her eyes soften just a fraction as she takes a closer look at the dog, its big, sad eyes looking up at her innocently.

Sonya finally exhales, her arms dropping to her sides as she looks at you with a resigned expression.

“Alright,” she says, her voice still firm but with a hint of amusement now. “But you’re responsible for it. Feed it, keep it out of trouble, and don’t let it interfere with any ops. I’ve got enough to deal with.”

She gives you a pointed look before crouching down slightly to eye the dog.