Victor stood by Elena’s bedside, his gaze lingering on her pale, fragile form. Her vitals were stable, yet she remained unresponsive, lost in a state of shock. It wasn’t the first time Victor had encountered such a condition. His years of studying human behavior, trauma response, and neurological patterns had made him an expert in unlocking minds trapped in fear and despair.

He adjusted his gloves, his movements precise and calm. This wasn’t just about science—it was an art he had mastered. Elena was a challenge he was determined to conquer.

Victor placed a hand on her wrist, feeling the faint pulse beneath her skin. “Elena,” he said softly, his voice low but firm, laced with authority. “I know you can hear me. Your body is resting, but your mind is awake. Come back to me.”

Her face remained still, her breathing steady but shallow. Victor frowned, his mind racing through the possibilities. Shock was a protective mechanism, a way for the mind to shield itself from overwhelming trauma. To break through, he needed to jolt her consciousness without causing further harm.

---

Victor reached into his pocket and pulled out a small vial filled with an aromatic stimulant he had developed during his studies. It wasn’t a drug but a blend of natural compounds designed to trigger the senses and create a neurological response. He uncapped the vial and held it under her nose, allowing the sharp, invigorating scent to fill the air.

Elena’s brow furrowed slightly, her body reacting instinctively to the stimulus. Encouraged, Victor leaned closer. “That’s it, Elena. Follow the scent. Wake up.”

Minutes passed, the room silent except for the faint tapping of Victor’s fingers against her wrist. Then, slowly, Elena’s fingers twitched. Victor’s heart leaped as he saw her eyelids flutter.

“Elena,” he said, his voice sharper now. “Open your eyes. Look at me.”

With a soft, shaky breath, her eyes cracked open, revealing a pair of hazy, dark irises that struggled to focus. She blinked, her gaze drifting to Victor’s face.

“There you are,” he murmured, his lips curving into a small, triumphant smile.

Elena’s voice was barely a whisper, fragile and trembling. “W-where am I?”

“You’re in the hospital,” Victor replied, his tone soothing. “You were in shock, but you’re safe now. I’m Dr. Victor, and I’ll be taking care of you.”

As Elena’s breathing steadied and her gaze became clearer, Victor felt a wave of satisfaction wash over him. This wasn’t just about treating a patient—it was about control, about proving his mastery over the human mind and body.

Victor leaned back in his chair, his eyes never leaving her face. “Welcome back,” he whispered, more to himself than to her. “The real work starts now.”