Austin put Dominic down and carefully removed the silver needles. This was far simpler and less painful than insertion. After sterilizing the needles, he turned the older man over and covered him with a clean blanket.

Dominic's eyes remained closed. He lay still, seemingly asleep, as Austin cleaned and covered him.

Austin sighed, watching Dominic's peaceful face. He sat beside him, taking one of his hands. Quieting his mind, he felt his granduncle's pulse. He already suspected the answer but sought confirmation. Though slightly faster, the pulse was much calmer than before.

Austin's fingers moved lightly. Dominic's pulse suggested his organs were relieved; the previous pressure seemed lifted. Austin knew he had succeeded.

He gently covered his granduncle again, a joyful smile finally breaking through. He rose to tidy the room, leaving the older man to rest.

"I still have a huge mess to clean up next door, and I'll likely be swamped for days," he muttered.

Lily stood before the wall clock, staring at the time. Two days had passed since her blood draw. The test results should have been in, yet they remained unhurried, continuing to provide food and drink, though the experiments seemed to have increased in frequency.

She wondered if this was related to her earlier outburst or if they had their own agenda. "R10 has already been handed over, but they probably haven't used it yet. Only one step remains, and it involves me."

She could guess the likely outcome but didn't know the mastermind. Gently caressing her belly, she noted the approaching due date. The twins remained unusually calm, showing no signs of restlessness; they seemed to hold their breath. "They resemble their father in that. Thinking of it, Alex can endure a great deal."

She hadn't heard from her husband in days. Unable to contact him, she had no news except... Suddenly, the door opened, revealing the same doctor and nurse.

The doctor seemed less apprehensive, perhaps due to their prior interactions. "Ms. Christian, we're here for your examination," he said.

"You're certainly dedicated," Lily replied mockingly.

Though they were merely following orders, Lily could only vent her frustration at them, unable to reach those truly responsible. The doctor remained impassive, taking out his equipment. "Ms. Christian, we'll conduct a prenatal examination today, so we must go to the bedroom."