[HI3] Protocol Stigmata

Chapter 59 - Almost There

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As I slowly opened my eyes, the room came into focus, revealing an unfamiliar ceiling. "Where... am I?"

"Looks like you're finally awake," a voice sounded from nearby. My heart skipped a beat as I recognized it.

"Rita."

"How was your rest, Master Shin?" Rita's voice held a hint of amusement.

"Where am I?" I asked, trying to push away the fog in my mind.

"You're currently in a Schicksal's clinic room. You made quite an impression on me, Master Shin. I owe you one, remember?"

"...Rita... one more thing," I hesitated, suddenly noticing my bare chest.

"Yes? Master Shin," Rita's tone remained playful.

"Why am I shirtless?" I demanded, feeling a flush rise to my cheeks.

"Fufu~ Master Shin... Is that a question you're really gonna ask?" Rita's laughter filled the room as she looked away with a mischievous smile.

"Of course!"

Rita's smile widened as I stared at her suspiciously, then sighed in resignation. "Where are Dr. Tesla and Himeko?"

"They are safe, for now," Rita replied, her tone calm and composed. "They are being held in a church as prisoners. While I'll give you a private treatment."

I narrowed my eyes. "Private treatment? Is that what you call this?"

Rita chuckled softly. "Don't worry, Master Shin. I ensured they were treated well. But as for you..." She leaned closer, her voice dropping to a whisper. "You have always been special to me. I couldn't let them treat you like any other prisoner."

Shivers send down my spine as I immediately get back onto the wall. "This isn't right."

Perhaps," she said, straightening up, her eyes meeting mine with a mixture of fondness and determination. "But it doesn't change the fact that I owe you. And I always repay my debts."

"What do I owe you anyway? I forgot."

"it seems you had forgotten, huh."

"I did."

Rita stood up and headed toward the door, but paused before leaving. "Master Shin, the Hyperion is facing a major crisis right now... What would you do if Kiana Kaslana has become your enemy?"

I blinked, taken aback. "What kind of question is that...?" I paused, my gaze shifting inward as I thought deeply. After a few moments, I answered, "I'll beat her to make sure she'll wake up."

Rita's lips curved into a smile. Without another word, she left the clinic, the door closing softly behind her.

The room fell silent once more as I lay back down on the bed, staring at the ceiling.