MY CRUEL PROTECTOR
His heart rate was a slow, rhythmic drum.
"The serum, Gianna," he whispered. "The Syndicate’s protocols... they were designed to resist biological warfare. My blood is a mess of toxins and mutations. The Icarus Strain is looking for a Lane. I’m just a Shield. I’m the 'Tool.' The virus doesn't know what to do with me."
Analysis: Correct, the Sovereign signaled, sounding almost surprised. Subject Alpha’s genetic structure is too fragmented for the virus to achieve a lock. He is a carrier, but he is not a victim. He is the only one who can walk through the plague and remain whole.