Chapter 59

*"This time, something new happened—I was simply tossed into another virtual space. A room with a view of Earth through a large panoramic window. It was an office—a desk with an executive chair, walls lined with bookshelves, the pleasant scent of baked goods, two couches, and a coffee table between them.*

*—Hello, Anji.*

*A man in his thirties, wearing gray sweatpants and a T-shirt with an Earth print, sat in the executive chair, holding a cup of coffee. A second ago, he hadn’t been there. Short dark hair, a clean-cut look. The scent of vanilla spread through the room.*

*—Who are you?*

*—A friend.*

*And just like that, I found myself talking to this strange guy in sweatpants. A new psychologist? Not in the mood for a chat.*

*—I’m a friend who knows your brain is frying. I’ve been assigned to deal with problematic cases caused by Chrysalis. I assume your condition—the one that landed you in the hospital twice in a month—was caused by it.*

*This explained nothing and was based on assumptions, not facts.*

*—I’m guessing Chrysalis gave you something your mind and body weren’t ready for. You’re overloading your nervous system, and all I can advise is not to push your limits again. Your life cycle and physical capabilities are limited. We can only restore your body if we react in time. For now, you need to limit using those abilities.*

*How interesting—life cycle, physical capabilities, ‘we’ restored the body… fascinating details. But the full picture was still missing one piece.*

*—Got it, you won’t talk. Cases like yours weren’t supposed to appear for at least six more years. But, as usual, exceptions happen. Anyway, find a way to manage your health issues—if you have a stroke, saving you will be nearly impossible.*

*I understood where you’re from, ‘friend.’ And I already know what I need to do to stay alive.*

*—Good luck, Anji Ganet. You’ll need it."*