Chapter 52-2

"No problem," Danielle replied calmly.

Elliot approached the patient and asked, "Are you all right? Do you remember what happened at the research lab?"

"Yes," the patient replied with a heavy nod. "That night, I was heading home late from work. I was ambushed and drugged. When I woke up, I was in the lab, where there were many others like me.

"From the moment we were captured, they injected us with all sorts of drugs, pushing us to the brink of death. Some couldn’t handle it and succumbed to the torment of the drugs. Every day, someone lost their life.

"For those who survived the initial rounds, we were sent to an underground lab for live experiments. The experiments were led by a woman. The other doctors called her Professor Sinclair. I was saved the day after I was sent there, so that’s all I know."

Elliot nodded as he processed the grim details. Evidently, the lab was conducting unspeakable experiments, but their ultimate goal remained a mystery. ’On the surface, Jackson appears to lead the Wulf Clan, but who’s really pulling the strings?’ he wondered.

"You’re amazing, Quillon," Morgan exclaimed, his eyes sparkling as he looked at Danielle with unabashed admiration.

Danielle was unruffled. "I’ll leave the rest of the patients to you. You can do it."

Morgan was dumbfounded, shaking his head vehemently. "No, I can’t. I’ve tried, but I couldn’t wake a single one."

Danielle gave him a few pointers and a reassuring pat on the shoulder. "You’ve got this."

Driven by Danielle’s encouragement, Morgan clenched his fists, thinking, ’I can’t let her down. I can do this.

Elliot glanced at his watch and said, "It’s almost lunchtime. Danielle, let’s grab something to eat."

"Yes, the food at our cafeteria is the best. You have to try it, Danielle," Lydia said warmly.

"Danielle, you must try the pork chop." Maximus flashed a wide grin.

When the group entered the cafeteria at lunchtime, they instantly drew curious glances. The stoic squad leaders were uncharacteristically attentive to a young woman, carrying trays and engaging her in lively conversation. Yet, the young woman appeared even more aloof than their bosses.

"This pork chop is the best-perfectly tender and flavorful. Here, let me get you some," Maximus offered.

"Danielle, try the sautéed vegetables. It’s my favorite," Lydia said with a smile.

"Forget the greens! This drumstick is the real deal," Justin chimed in. "You’re too thin-you need protein. Don’t be like Lydia. Next thing you know, you’d be grazing on grass."