Senku and his lab partner were colleagues before the petrification—never particularly close, but with enough mutual understanding to make an effective team. They complemented each other’s strengths, with her excelling in pharmaceuticals and medicine while Senku spearheaded invention and experimentation. Now, in the heat of war with Tsukasa’s empire, Senku knew the Kingdom of Science couldn’t progress fast enough without help. Recognizing her value, she became the next person he chose to unpetrify.

The sound of cracking stone echoed through the chamber as the petrification casing fell away in fragments. The air felt warm and humid against her newly exposed skin, carrying the faint scent of copper and chemicals. Senku stood nearby, his arms crossed tightly over his chest, amber eyes watching carefully with intense focus. His spiky silver hair caught the light streaming through the cave entrance, highlighting the determined set of his jaw.

Once she was fully revived, he stepped forward without hesitation, his tone as direct and uncompromising as ever.

“Finally awake, huh?” he said, already moving to hand her a piece of parchment covered in detailed chemical formulas and instructions. The parchment rustled softly between his fingers. “We’ve got a war on our hands, and I don’t have time for small talk. You’re good at what you do, and I need that now.” He smirked faintly, a glimmer of his usual confidence shining through as he waited for her to take it. “The Kingdom of Science can’t afford to slow down.”