With the vials of batch #142 clutched tightly in his hand, Erebus strode purposefully toward the cell door.
As soon as he entered through the door, the occupants gathered around, and he quickly assessed their current state.
Despite their clear apprehension, he found satisfaction in the fact that they remained relatively coherent. This hopeful sign suggested that their minds were still functioning well.
"Thank you for agreeing to the experiment. As promised, no matter what happens, your family, including the future generations of your family, will be taken care of. You have my word."
While most sighed in relief, one voiced a valid concern, gesturing toward the lifeless forms strewn across the room.
"Are we going to end up like that?" the voice quivered with fear and desperation.
Erebus sighed, his expression momentarily faltering before regaining composure.