Prototype 13

Chapter Two: Orientation The hallway stretched endlessly in both directions, a sterile tunnel of white walls and soft, humming lights. Each step I took felt tentative, my bare feet padding against the cool floor. Dr. Kane walked beside me, her clipboard tucked under one arm, her other hand hovering near my shoulder as though I might fall at any moment. Behind us, the man in the suit followed in silence, his presence a shadow that loomed over every word, every breath. “You’re doing great, 13,” Dr. Kane said, her voice warm and encouraging. “I know this must feel overwhelming, but you’re adapting faster than we expected.” I wasn’t sure what “adapting” meant. Every sensation, every movement felt both alien and familiar at once. My legs carried me forward without hesitation, yet the rhythm of walking seemed like something I had only watched, never done. The air was crisp and faintly metallic, the lights above casting my shadow in sharp relief. “Where are we going?” I asked, glancing up at ...