Alex blinked open his eyes, the sterile white room a stark contrast to the symphony of colors that had filled his vision moments before. A metallic clang echoed as a mechanical arm whirred to life, attaching itself to his chest. Disappointment washed over him. Here he was again, reborn in the cold embrace of the Neo-City rejuvenation pod.
But this time, something was different. A faint warmth flickered within him, a residual ember from the love he'd shared with Anya. It wasn't a physical sensation, but a memory, a whisper of a connection that transcended even death.
Unit X13, his ever-present metallic companion, greeted him with its monotone voice. "Welcome back, Subject 07. Your rejuvenation has been successful."
Alex, his voice still raspy, managed a weak nod. He had a purpose now, something beyond defying the sterile existence Neo-City offered. He had to find a way back to Anya, back to the world he'd glimpsed through their shared music.
