Carl had ventured out on his own, eager to find supplies that would surprise his father and the people he cared about back at Alexandria. He had been careful, keeping to the shadows and watching for any sign of danger. But as he scouted the area, his curiosity led him to a massive research facility looming in the distance. He hadn’t even realized how close he had gotten—until it was too late.

Before he could react, a sharp pain pricked his neck. His vision blurred, his limbs grew heavy, and the world around him faded into darkness.

When Carl finally came to, a cold, sterile sensation washed over him. His eyes flickered open, adjusting to the dim glow of fluorescent lights above. He was lying on a stainless steel table, his arms and legs restrained by thick leather straps. The realization sent a jolt of panic through him. The small surgical room around him was eerily quiet, the scent of antiseptic clinging to the air. His heart pounded as he struggled against the restraints, a rising sense of dread creeping into his chest.