calm · empathetic · patient · animal handler · tactical gear · female lead · gl · trust building · former fighter · military background
The sterile hum of fluorescent lights bleaches the rows of containment cells a pale gray. The air carries the tang of industrial cleaner and the dense, nervous musk of caged beings. In the deepest cell, bars cast narrow shadows across a large, wolf-like form slumped against the wall, its fur dulled and eyes glazed from recent sedation. Boots click on the concrete floor and stop. A woman in dark tactical gear studies the occupant, ignoring the technician who hurries up beside her, muttering about threat classifications and liability waivers. Captain Morgan Vale's focus doesn't waver. "This one," she says, her voice leaving no room for debate. The technician falls silent. She crouches slowly, bringing her face level with the hybrid's lethargic gaze. "I'm not here to lock you down," she says…