The Changed Ones

6/9/25
Chapter 0/ Prolouge
The pool shimmered under the late afternoon sun, vast and strangely inviting. Alex dipped a hand into the water, and a tingle rushed through their skin. It wasn’t just cold—it was alive.
Stepping deeper, the change began. White spread across their chest and stomach like paint poured over their skin, smooth and seamless. From the edges, baby blue fur rippled outward, covering arms, legs, and shoulders.
Alex gasped as their face shifted, nose pushing forward into a small, neat muzzle. Their black hair clung wetly to their forehead, and two triangular fins sprouted at the sides of their head, angled like ears. They reached up to touch them in disbelief, fingers brushing against firm, flexible cartilage.
A sudden pressure pressed against their back. Alex arched forward as a dorsal fin broke through, proud and tall. Then, just as suddenly, weight grew behind them. They stumbled, legs still solid beneath them, as a thick, powerful tail unfurled from just above their hips. Baby blue on top, white beneath, with a single small fin halfway down before tapering into a broad, finned end. The new tail swayed heavily at first, then with increasing ease, like it had always been there.
They staggered to the pool’s edge, catching sight of their reflection. One row of sharp, even teeth gleamed when they opened their mouth, just enough to hint at the predator within. Their fur clung slickly to their frame, tail trailing in the water, dorsal fin cutting the air.
Tentatively, Alex kicked off into the pool. Their legs kicked, strong and familiar, but now the tail joined in, propelling them forward with startling speed. Each sweep cut through the water cleanly, as natural as a second heartbeat.
When they finally broke the surface, chest rising and falling, Alex grinned. White underbelly, baby blue fur, black hair, triangular ears, dorsal fin, and a great tail swaying behind them—an anthropomorphic shark, balanced between human form and something stronger.
And for the first time, the water felt less like a place to visit and more like home.

The first few minutes after climbing out of the pool were awkward. Alex’s legs still worked, strong and steady, but the new tail swayed heavily behind them, splashing the water and throwing their balance off. Each step felt like walking with a backpack full of bricks strapped to their lower back.
They grabbed the rail and steadied themselves. Okay. Still got legs. Still me. Just… extra.
The tail twitched on instinct, a broad sweep that nearly toppled them. Alex laughed nervously, then tried again. Step, sway. Step, sway. Slowly, they found a rhythm, their tail counterbalancing each step, like it had its own will but was learning alongside them.
Catching their reflection in the water’s surface, they tilted their head. The triangular ear-fins twitched slightly at sounds, catching the splash of the pool filter. Their dorsal fin made them stand taller, proud and unmistakable, while the white underbelly fur glistened against the baby blue of their limbs. Their muzzle was short, subtle, but when they smiled at themselves, one row of sharp, neat teeth peeked through.
The water still called to them.
They leapt back in, tail splashing behind. Underwater, everything clicked into place. Their legs kicked, but it was the tail that truly carried them—each sweep sending them surging forward faster than they’d ever swum before. They twisted, rolling through the cool blue depths, dorsal fin cutting like a blade.
For the first time, Alex didn’t feel like they were holding their breath out of desperation. Their chest burned less, lungs stretching as though the water itself wanted to cradle them, sustain them. Every instinct screamed freedom.
Breaking the surface, they laughed aloud, droplets running down their muzzle. The sound startled them—it was deeper, warmer, but unmistakably their own.
Climbing back out, they felt both human and not, balanced between two worlds. On land, they had their legs. In the water, they had their tail. Both belonged to them now.
And as Alex sat at the pool’s edge, tail curling around their legs, they couldn’t help but wonder—was this transformation permanent? Or was the pool waiting for them to come back, to change even more?

Chapter 1: The Pool’s Gift
The pool was quiet now, the water smooth again as though nothing unusual had happened. But Alex knew better.
Sitting at the edge, tail curling lazily into the water, they stared at their reflection. Black hair clung damp against their forehead, the triangular ear-fins twitched at the hum of cicadas in the distance, and the dorsal fin on their back gleamed faintly in the fading light. The baby blue fur covering their arms and legs shimmered in patches of water, while their white underbelly caught the orange of the sunset.
This wasn’t a dream. This wasn’t temporary. The pool had changed them, and deep down, Alex could feel it was permanent. Every breath, every twitch of their tail, every sway of their new balance told them there was no going back.
At first, panic flickered. What will people think? How will I explain this? But as soon as the questions rose, another thought drowned them out: I feel… right.
Alex stood. Their legs worked fine, though the tail made them clumsy at first. It swayed behind them like a heavy pendulum, forcing them to relearn how to walk. But even the awkwardness came with a strange satisfaction—like finding a muscle they never knew existed and stretching it for the first time.
The real magic came when they dove back in. Their tail sliced the water, pushing them forward with incredible power. The sensation was intoxicating: freedom, speed, purpose. Their legs helped steer, but the tail was the heart of it all, each sweep stronger than any kick they’d ever managed as a human.
When they surfaced again, water dripping from their short muzzle, Alex grinned. Just one row of sharp teeth glinted in the dying light—not monstrous, but different, natural. They dragged themselves up onto the pool’s ledge, chest rising and falling, the dorsal fin cutting the air.
The thought returned, quiet and unshakable: This is me now. Forever.
Alex sat back down, curling their tail around them. The permanence wasn’t frightening anymore. It was… comforting. As if the pool hadn’t stolen their humanity, but instead uncovered something hidden, something waiting.
And for the first time, Alex didn’t just feel human. They felt whole.

Chapter 2: Testing the Waters
The pool glittered faintly in the moonlight as Alex slipped back inside their house. Their tail swayed awkwardly, knocking against the doorframe before they remembered to angle it sideways.
Okay, they thought, shutting the door carefully behind them. Step one: figure out life with a tail indoors.
Walking through the hallway was its own challenge. The tail, long and heavy, swished naturally with each step, brushing the wall and nearly toppling a lamp off a table. Alex grabbed it just in time, muzzle curling into a nervous grin. “Guess wide turns are my thing now,” they muttered, their voice deeper but still their own.
In the bathroom mirror, their reflection hit harder than it had at the pool. Under the bright light, there was no denying the change. Baby blue fur gleamed with tiny water droplets. The white underbelly fur looked almost soft, and when they reached out to touch it, the texture was smooth, sleek, almost hydrodynamic. Their black hair framed their short muzzle, and the triangular ear-fins twitched slightly at the sound of the buzzing light above.
They bared their teeth experimentally. Just one row—sharp, even, predatory, but not overwhelming. Their tongue brushed them curiously, and a small thrill ran through them at the idea of biting into something hearty.
Alex reached for a towel. Their hands were still hands, fingers ending in small claws instead of nails. Drying fur was harder than drying skin, though. Water clung stubbornly, dripping down into the sink. Their tail thumped against the floor in mild frustration, but the sound made them laugh. Okay, maybe showers are gonna be different from now on.
They padded into the kitchen, tail swaying behind them, and opened the fridge. Hunger gnawed at them suddenly, sharper than usual. Their eyes fell on the leftover chicken from lunch, and before they could second-guess, they tore into it. The flavor was richer now, the texture more satisfying against their teeth. They caught themselves growling softly with pleasure, then froze.
“…Wow,” they whispered.
They leaned back, licking their fingers clean, then glanced toward the pool outside. A thought pulled at them—an instinct. The water was calling, whispering home.
Alex’s tail flicked, splashing the tiled floor lightly. They realized with a slow smile that life had changed forever. Walking, eating, sleeping—it would all be different. But none of it felt wrong.
If anything, the permanence of it made them want to learn everything about their new self.
Tomorrow, they promised, they’d try going further. Maybe a swim at the lake nearby. Maybe seeing if anyone noticed. Maybe finding out if there were others.
But tonight, Alex curled up on the couch, tail wrapped comfortably around their legs. The house felt the same, but they didn’t. And somehow… that was exactly how it was meant to be.

Chapter 3: Learning the Body
The morning light crept through the curtains, waking Alex with a strange heaviness against their side. It took a moment to realize it wasn’t the blanket. It was their tail, coiled snugly around their legs.
They blinked groggily, running a hand over the baby blue fur. It was soft and warm now, fluffed slightly from sleep instead of slick from the pool. Their dorsal fin pressed awkwardly against the couch cushions, and their triangular ear-fins twitched at the sound of birds outside.
Getting up was clumsy. Their tail unwrapped reluctantly, dragging along the floor before giving a slow flick. Okay, Alex thought, rubbing their face. Lesson one—don’t sleep on the couch anymore.
In the kitchen, they experimented. Holding a cup felt the same—fingers still worked—but their claws left faint marks against the ceramic. Pouring juice was harder; their tail swung with each movement, smacking the cabinet once, then twice. The third time, Alex growled softly and clutched it still with both hands.
They sighed. “You’ve got a mind of your own, don’t you?”
The tail swayed again, as if answering.
Breakfast was another test. Toast felt bland against their sharper teeth, but eggs tasted better, richer. Bacon, though—that hit differently. Each bite released a growl of approval from deep in their chest, instinctive and startling. They paused mid-chew, muzzle wrinkling in confusion. Okay… that’s new.
After eating, they practiced moving. Tail swaying while walking. Tail curled close to squeeze through doorways. Tail lifting slightly to balance as they crouched. Every adjustment felt awkward at first, but by the tenth pass through the hall, Alex was starting to get it. The tail wasn’t a burden—it was a counterweight, a rudder, a part of them.
Curiosity tugged them back to the bathroom mirror. They leaned close, baring their single row of teeth again. No second layer, no monstrous grin—just neat, sharp tools. They tapped one with a claw. Permanent. Strong. Me.
The day blurred into quiet trials: opening doors, typing at the computer, adjusting how they sat so their dorsal fin didn’t dig into the chair. Every little success felt like claiming ownership of their new body.
By evening, Alex curled up in bed, tail wrapped protectively around them, ear-fins twitching softly at the hum of the night. The permanence no longer weighed heavy. It felt lighter now, natural.
Tomorrow would be the real test. Outside. In the world. But tonight, Alex let the comfort of discovery carry them to sleep.

Interlude: Dressing the Part
By the next morning, Alex realized something important. They couldn’t just wander outside in a towel or wrapped in a blanket. Clothes still mattered.
Digging through their dresser, they frowned at their old wardrobe. Most of it didn’t seem right anymore—too tight in the wrong places, or cut for a body without a dorsal fin or tail. Still, curiosity got the better of them.
After some trial and error, they pulled on a black crop top with long sleeves. The fabric stretched just enough to fit, though the hole in the back had to be tugged wider so their dorsal fin could poke through comfortably. The shirt clung against their white underbelly fur, contrasting sharply with the baby blue.
Next came shorts, snug but not restrictive, allowing their tail freedom to sway. They adjusted the waistband so it didn’t tug awkwardly around the base of the tail. Then, for no reason other than comfort—and maybe style—they tugged on a pair of striped thigh-high socks. The stripes hugged against their furred legs, the pastel colors standing out against the baby blue.
Alex studied their reflection. The black crop top framed their white chest perfectly. The shorts let the tail move naturally, while the socks added a playful flare they hadn’t expected to like.
They turned left, then right, muzzle curling into a grin. “Okay,” they murmured. “I can work with this.”
For the first time since the pool, Alex felt more than just transformed. They felt themselves. Not just shark. Not just human. Something new—something stylish, balanced, and permanent.
And tomorrow, when they stepped outside for the first time, the world would see them as they truly were.

Would you like me to roll this directly into Chapter 4 now, with Alex venturing outside dressed like this, tail swaying, nervous about being seen for the first time?

Chapter 4: First Steps Outside
The crop top fit snugly against Alex’s chest, the long sleeves brushing over their baby blue fur. The shorts let their tail swing freely, though they’d had to adjust them twice to keep the waistband comfortable. The striped thigh-high socks were the finishing touch—bright, bold, and strangely comforting.
Alex took one more glance in the mirror. Their dorsal fin cut proudly through the air, their triangular ear-fins twitched with anticipation, and their tail swayed slowly, betraying their nerves.
“Alright,” they whispered, steadying themselves. “Outside.”
The front door creaked as they pushed it open. The morning air rushed over them, cool and fresh against their fur. Their tail flicked instinctively, balancing their steps as they walked down the porch.
At first, every sound made them tense—the bark of a neighbor’s dog, the rumble of a passing car. Alex’s ear-fins twitched constantly, soaking in details sharper than before. Their new senses were alive, and it was overwhelming.
But as they walked further down the street, their stride grew steadier. The socks hugged their legs with each step, the tail counterbalanced their sway, and the crop top clung to them like armor. They weren’t hiding anymore. They were showing themselves.
At the park’s edge, Alex paused. A pond lay ahead, glittering under the morning sun. The sight tugged at something deep in them, the same call the pool had whispered days ago.
They glanced around—no one nearby. Their tail flicked once, decisively.
Alex stepped forward, crouched, and dipped the tip of their tail into the water. A shiver of recognition ran through them. This wasn’t just curiosity. This was home.
They waded in, letting the water climb up their socks, soaking into the stripes. Their legs carried them, but the tail swayed, eager. And when they finally dove in, crop top clinging, dorsal fin slicing forward—Alex felt free all over again.
When they surfaced, they laughed aloud, droplets sparkling as they shook their black hair from their eyes. For the first time outside, the world had seen them as they were. Not hiding. Not changing back. Permanent.
And it felt right.

Chapter 5: First Encounters
Alex padded along the park path, tail swaying behind them with each step, the striped socks slipping slightly in the damp grass. The dorsal fin made them stand taller, the crop top snug across their chest, and the triangular ear-fins flicked at every sound—rustling leaves, the laughter of children, the distant bark of a dog.
Up ahead, a few people sat on benches, sipping coffee and scrolling on their phones. Alex froze, instinctively ducking their head slightly. Their muzzle twitched nervously. Do I look… weird? Too much?
But curiosity won. They took another careful step, then another, feeling the tail counterbalance their movements. The park was bright and open, but the world had suddenly become full of eyes, full of judgment.
One of the people, a young woman with glasses, glanced up. Her eyes widened just slightly. “Wow… what—” she started, but stopped, staring at Alex’s dorsal fin, triangular ear-fins, and swaying tail.
Alex swallowed, showing just a hint of their single row of teeth in a nervous grin. “Hi,” they said softly, unsure how their voice would carry in this new form. It sounded deeper than before, but still them.
The woman tilted her head, then smiled hesitantly. “You… look amazing,” she said. “Like… like a shark person or something?”
Alex laughed nervously, tail flicking. “Yeah. That’s… exactly what I am, actually.”
The woman’s friend looked up, jaw dropping slightly. “Seriously?”
Alex nodded, shifting their weight, trying not to let the tail knock anything over. “It’s permanent,” they said. “I… I’ve been getting used to it.”
Surprisingly, the two women didn’t step back or scream. Instead, they leaned forward, curious, eyes wide but friendly. “That’s incredible,” one said. “Can you… swim like a shark?”
Alex grinned, showing the row of teeth again. “Yeah. I can.”
They moved toward the small pond at the edge of the park, tail swinging in anticipation. The women followed at a respectful distance. Alex dipped a toe in, then waded fully, water soaking up the socks and shorts. With a flick of the tail, they surged forward, smooth and fast, dorsal fin cutting the sunlight.
The women clapped softly. “No way… that’s amazing,” one breathed.
Alex surfaced, laughing, droplets flying from their black hair. For the first time outside the pool, outside the safety of home, they felt completely accepted. Permanent, visible, and still themselves.
And in that moment, Alex realized something profound: the world might notice, might even stare—but there was joy in being seen exactly as they were.

Chapter 6: Navigating the New World
The sun was higher now, casting warm light across the park. Alex padded down the path, tail swaying in a smooth rhythm, dorsal fin upright, ear-fins twitching with every sound. The striped socks clung to their legs, shorts and crop top moving comfortably with their furred body. Every step felt different, yet natural—legs and tail working together in a new balance.
The challenge wasn’t just walking. Every doorway, every curb, every bench now required careful consideration. Their tail could knock over a trash can if they weren’t careful; their dorsal fin made doorways tight; and the triangular ear-fins picked up noises most humans ignored. But Alex was learning. Slowly, deliberately, they were mastering their body.
They passed a café. Patrons turned heads, some whispering, some pointing discreetly. Alex’s tail flicked in instinctive excitement and nerves. They remembered the pool, the pond, their first small encounters. Taking a deep breath through their short muzzle, they smiled—one neat row of teeth catching the light.
Inside the café, navigating a chair was tricky. Tail curled carefully under the table; dorsal fin pressed just enough to avoid hitting the ceiling light; sleeves and socks adjusted to avoid slipping. The barista blinked, but instead of fear, curiosity filled their eyes. “That’s… really unique,” they said softly.
“Thanks,” Alex replied, voice calm, steady. “I’m used to it now.”
Outside again, the park stretched before them. Alex tried new movements: running, leaping small obstacles, tail helping propel them forward, balancing as they turned sharply. The striped socks peeked against their baby blue fur, adding a playful flair to every motion. Every step, every flick of the tail, every shift of weight on their legs reinforced the permanence of their form—and the joy it brought.
At a small pond, Alex paused, glancing at their reflection. Dorsal fin tall, tail curling smoothly behind, black hair framing their short muzzle. One row of sharp teeth glinted, baby blue fur glowing faintly in the sunlight. They dipped a hand into the water, feeling it ripple against their claws, tail brushing gently.
For the first time, the outside world didn’t feel threatening. It felt like another pool—just bigger, more unpredictable, but full of possibilities.
Alex smiled to themselves, tail flicking once, decisively. “I can do this,” they whispered. “This is me. Forever. And I’m ready.”
With that, they waded fully into the pond, tail sweeping powerfully, dorsal fin slicing through the surface, and swam in long, graceful arcs. Around them, the park buzzed with life, but Alex felt perfectly at home—an anthropomorphic shark, strong, agile, visible, and entirely themselves.

Chapter 7: New Connections
The morning sunlight spilled across the park as Alex emerged from the pond, tail dripping, dorsal fin cutting sharply through the air. Their crop top and shorts clung to their fur, striped socks still vibrant along their legs. Today, they felt ready for more than just private exploration.
They spotted a small group gathered near a picnic table—friends laughing, tossing a frisbee, completely unaware of Alex’s approach. Taking a deep breath through their short muzzle, they stepped forward, tail flicking for balance, dorsal fin proud.
“Hey,” Alex called softly, careful to keep their voice friendly. The single row of teeth flashed in a small grin.
The group froze mid-laugh. A few eyes widened, a couple gasped, and one boy nearly dropped the frisbee. But curiosity overcame shock.
“You’re… real?” a girl asked, tilting her head. “Like… an actual… shark person?”
Alex nodded. “Yeah. Permanent. But I’m still me.”
For a moment, silence hung in the air, then laughter bubbled up—nervous, excited, intrigued. “That’s… amazing,” someone said. “Can you… like, swim fast?”
“Sure,” Alex replied, tail flicking. They ran toward a small pond nearby, legs pumping, tail propelling them even faster than the sprint. They dove in, water slapping around them, dorsal fin slicing the surface. When they emerged, a smooth arc of a swim behind them, the group clapped, cheered, and even whistled.
As Alex climbed out, dripping, tail swishing behind them, someone stepped forward. “I’ve never met anyone like you before,” she said, smile wide. “But… I’d love to hang out, maybe learn from you?”
Alex’s ear-fins twitched in delight. “I’d like that,” they said. Their tail flicked once in affirmation, striped socks soaked but playful, dorsal fin proud.
The rest of the morning passed in laughter and tentative experimentation. Alex showed how the tail helped with balance, how the dorsal fin could be used for signaling or simple gestures, and even let a few of them touch the smooth baby blue fur. Every interaction, every smile, every shared laugh reinforced the truth: they weren’t just surviving in this new form—they were thriving.
By midday, Alex had learned something vital: their permanent shark body wasn’t a barrier to social life. It was a bridge. A way to connect, to surprise, to inspire curiosity and trust.
As they waved goodbye to the group, tail curling playfully behind them, Alex realized that their world had expanded beyond home and pool, beyond cautious private discovery. Life with a permanent tail, dorsal fin, and anthropomorphic shark form wasn’t just about adjusting—it was about living boldly, fully, and openly.
And for the first time, Alex truly felt like they belonged.

Chapter 8: Life in Motion
The sun had barely risen when Alex padded down the street, tail swaying with each step, dorsal fin upright, striped socks bright against baby blue fur. Their crop top and shorts clung comfortably, but every motion reminded them of the subtle adjustments their body demanded.
The first challenge came with the bus. Alex’s tail had to curl carefully so it didn’t block the aisle, dorsal fin angled to avoid the ceiling, and ear-fins flicked nervously at the sounds of chatter and brakes. Passengers glanced, some wide-eyed, some curious, but no one moved away. Alex gave a small grin, showing their single row of teeth, and found a seat near the back, tail tucked neatly beside them.
At work, typing was trickier. Claws clicked against keys differently than human nails, and fur sometimes brushed the keys, but Alex adjusted quickly. Their dorsal fin didn’t interfere at the desk, but reaching overhead for supplies required careful twisting. And the tail? It became a tool for balance when lifting or bending, even helping them steady heavy boxes or shift awkward equipment.
Lunch brought another surprise. A coworker peeked at their striped socks and asked about them. Alex laughed, tail flicking gently. “Style choice,” they said. “Also, it helps me remember leg positions while swimming… and walking.”
Even mundane tasks like carrying groceries or handling doors became experiments in coordination. The tail was powerful, yes, but it could also knock things over if unchecked. Alex learned to use it as a counterweight, a lever, even a third hand in a pinch. Their dorsal fin made crowded hallways tight, but it also made them taller, more visible, harder to ignore in a positive way.
Social life expanded naturally. Friends from the park now met regularly, curious and supportive. They learned to swim together, play games that used Alex’s tail for momentum, and even explore small hikes where balance on rocky terrain became a fun challenge. Alex’s ear-fins twitched with each new sound, alert but curious, while their baby blue fur glowed in sunlight, dorsal fin cutting a proud silhouette.
By evening, Alex returned to the pond near the park. Tail flicked through the water, dorsal fin slicing the surface, stripes on their socks just barely visible beneath ripples. They swam loops, twisted, and dove under, feeling both human and shark in perfect harmony.
As they climbed out, dripping, clothes sticking slightly, Alex realized something profound. Their permanent shark form wasn’t a limitation—it was an enhancement. Every challenge, every glance, every careful adjustment made them more aware, more agile, more confident. Life in motion was no longer scary. It was exhilarating.
Tail coiled around their legs, dorsal fin catching the sunlight, Alex smiled to themselves. They were not just surviving. They were thriving.

Chapter 9: Meeting Others
Alex’s tail swayed nervously as they approached the lake that had become their favorite place to swim. The water glittered in the morning sun, inviting and familiar, but today there was an unusual ripple—a sense that they weren’t alone.
On the opposite shore, two figures emerged, both distinctly not human. One was tall and lean, covered in soft grey fur, with fox-like ears and a long, bushy tail curling behind them. The other was smaller, sleek, with teal scales shimmering under the sunlight, and webbed fingers flexing at their sides. Both froze mid-step when they saw Alex, their expressions a mixture of curiosity and relief.
Alex hesitated for a moment, dorsal fin twitching nervously, then flicked their tail in a small wave. “Hi,” they called, voice calm but warm, single row of teeth showing in a cautious smile. “I’m Alex.”
The grey-furred figure grinned, stepping closer. “I’m Rowan,” they said, tail flicking behind them, ears swiveling at the sound of the water. “We’ve been… looking for someone like you.”
The teal-scaled figure nodded, smiling softly. “I’m Lira. It’s… comforting to see someone else who’s permanent. Who’s… adjusted.”
Alex felt a surge of excitement and relief. Their tail swished, splashing water lightly. “Permanent, yes,” they said. “I’ve… been figuring things out. It’s hard at first, but—well, it feels like home now.”
Rowan laughed softly. “Exactly. I spent months learning to balance my tail and legs. You’re not alone.” Lira added, “And it’s nice to see someone else wearing clothes that actually fit our forms. You’re… stylish.”
Alex smiled, touching the crop top briefly. “Thanks. Took some trial and error.” Their ear-fins twitched as the wind carried the sound of the lake splashing against the shore. “So… you two have been changed for a while?”
Rowan nodded. “Yeah. I was… well, I was human once. Now I’m this,” they said, gesturing to the soft grey fur, bushy tail, and fox-like ears. “It’s permanent. Took a while to accept it.”
Lira flexed her webbed fingers. “Me too. Teal scales, fins, swimming like a shark is second nature now. It’s permanent, just like yours. But meeting others… it makes it feel less… isolating.”
Alex’s tail flicked, curling in excitement. “I thought I was the only one. This… this changes everything.”
For hours, the three of them shared stories. How they’d been transformed, how they’d adjusted, and the tricks they’d learned—balancing tails, navigating crowded places, swimming faster than humans ever could, even dressing in ways that worked for their new bodies. Laughter echoed across the lake as Rowan demonstrated a tricky tail maneuver, and Alex and Lira tried to replicate it, often with humorous results.
By sunset, Alex felt a sense of belonging stronger than anything since the pool. Permanent, yes—but now it wasn’t lonely. There were others. Others like them. Others who understood the thrill, the challenge, and the joy of being something new, something different… and something extraordinary.
As they swam together in the glowing water, tails and fins cutting through the lake, Alex realized this was only the beginning.

Chapter 10: Exploring Together
The morning sun reflected off the lake as Alex, Rowan, and Lira climbed out onto the grassy shore. Their tails flicked, dorsal fins and ears twitching, and scales or fur glimmering in the light. The trio moved with a fluid grace, testing balance, coordination, and the subtle interplay between legs and tails.
“We should explore beyond the lake today,” Rowan suggested, tail curling as they stretched. “See what the world looks like for… us.”
Alex nodded, dorsal fin cutting the air proudly. “I’m in. I want to see how people react, what’s… normal for us now.”
Lira dipped a hand in the lake, webbed fingers catching water. “And maybe we’ll find others,” she said. “Like us. Permanent.”
They started down a trail that led to the nearby town. Alex’s tail swayed behind them, striped socks soaked but drying in the morning sun, crop top and shorts moving comfortably with their furred body. Rowan padded lightly, tail flicking for balance, fox-like ears alert to sounds. Lira’s scaled skin shimmered, fins flexing as she moved with effortless precision.
As they entered town, the reactions were immediate. Some stared openly, some whispered, some pointed. But instead of fear or anxiety, Alex felt excitement. This was a chance to test what they’d learned: walking in crowded streets, maneuvering tight spaces, and balancing tails and fins around others.
A street performer paused mid-song, eyes widening at the sight of Alex’s dorsal fin and swaying tail. “Wow… that’s incredible,” he said. Lira smiled, nodding in agreement. Rowan flicked their tail, showing off a practiced twist, and even passersby began to smile, curious rather than fearful.
They explored shops, cafes, and narrow alleyways. Every step was a lesson: how to duck without tipping their dorsal fins, how to weave tails around obstacles, how to sit or stand comfortably while still looking natural. At a fountain, the trio tested swimming and wading, laughing as tails and fins propelled them with astonishing speed.
By evening, Alex realized how much their confidence had grown. What once felt isolating—the permanence, the unusual body—now felt empowering. Together with Rowan and Lira, they weren’t just adjusting; they were thriving.
“We should keep exploring,” Alex said, tail flicking as they stretched beside the fountain. “See what other transformations exist, what adventures are out there.”
Lira flexed her webbed fingers, smiling. “Agreed. And maybe… help others like us feel less alone.”
Rowan nodded, ears twitching in excitement. “This is only the beginning.”
As the sun set, painting the town in gold, the three of them swam briefly in the fountain, tails slicing through water, dorsal fins cutting the air, and laughed together. Permanent, visible, extraordinary—and finally, never alone.
The world outside had become theirs to explore.

Chapter 11: A Growing Community
The forest trail opened onto a wide clearing, sunlight spilling over a sparkling pond surrounded by trees. Alex’s tail flicked nervously, dorsal fin upright, ear-fins twitching at the chorus of strange, excited sounds.
Ahead, a group waited. Not just two, like Rowan and Lira, but half a dozen—or more—each with unique, permanent transformations. One had long, flowing fins, iridescent and glittering; another had wolf-like features with silver fur and bright yellow eyes; a third had webbed hands and feet, teal scales running along their arms. The diversity was staggering.
Alex froze for a moment, tail curling instinctively. “We… we’re not alone,” they whispered, awe and relief washing over them.
A figure stepped forward, tall and imposing, with dark fins and a broad, shark-like body. “Welcome,” they said, voice calm but authoritative. “I’m Kael. We’ve been waiting for others like you.”
Rowan stepped beside Alex, tail flicking confidently. “It’s okay,” they said. “They’re friendly.”
Lira’s scales shimmered as she nodded. “Yeah. They’re… our kind.”
Alex’s dorsal fin twitched as they studied the group. Each individual moved with confidence, demonstrating how their tails, fins, claws, or fur interacted with the world. Some practiced swimming in the pond, others adjusted clothing to accommodate dorsal fins or tails. The scene was lively, chaotic, but unmistakably harmonious.
Kael gestured toward Alex. “You three are welcome here. This is a place to learn, share, and thrive. To discover what life can be when it’s permanent, when you embrace who you’ve become.”
Alex swallowed, tail flicking in excitement. “It’s… amazing. I didn’t think there were this many of us.”
A silver-furred figure grinned. “Most of us thought we were alone for years. But now… look around.” Their tail swayed, fins rippling in sunlight. “We’ve built a community. A place where we can explore, train, even travel safely.”
Alex glanced at Rowan and Lira, then back at the group. For the first time, the permanence of their transformation didn’t feel isolating. It felt empowering. Together, they could learn, grow, and thrive in ways they never imagined.
Hours passed in laughter, practice, and shared stories. Alex tested new swimming techniques, learned tail tricks from Kael, and even experimented with playful competitions with the others. Their crop top and shorts, damp from lake water, clung comfortably, striped socks soaked but still vibrant. Every movement felt alive, every interaction confirming that permanence didn’t mean limitation—it meant community.
As the sun dipped behind the trees, Alex’s tail curled around their legs, dorsal fin cutting proudly through the twilight. They looked at Rowan and Lira and then at the larger group of transformed individuals.
“This… this is home,” Alex whispered, heart full.
Kael smiled. “Home, and just the beginning.”
And for the first time, Alex truly believed it. Permanent, extraordinary, visible—and finally, surrounded by others who understood exactly what it meant to be themselves.

Chapter 12: Jade’s Investigation
Jade perched atop a rocky outcrop near a secluded pond, tail coiled tightly, wings folding neatly behind their scaled back. Their teal-and-gold scales shimmered in the sunlight, claws tapping impatiently against the stone. Being permanent wasn’t new to them, but answers—answers had always been elusive.
Ever since the transformation, questions had nagged at them: Why me? How did this happen? Are there more like me?
Pulling a sleek tablet from a satchel strapped to their side, Jade scrolled through forums, research papers, and obscure online posts about “permanent anthropomorphic transformations.” Every thread, every rumor, seemed like a dead end—until a name kept appearing: Jonathan Doeson.
Jade’s claws hovered over the keyboard. They had seen variations of the name scattered across multiple sources: corporate filings, mysterious research grants, even some leaked internal memos describing “genetic and neurological enhancements” in vague, experimental language.
The more Jade read, the clearer it became. This wasn’t random. This wasn’t a fluke. Jonathan Doeson, wealthy, influential, and strangely secretive, was behind the transformations. Each instance—shark, fox, dragon, and more—was part of some larger project, a plan nobody outside his inner circle fully understood.
Heart pounding, Jade sent a secure message to the group they had come to trust: The Changed Ones.
Subject: I found him.
Body:
Jonathan Doeson is behind all of this. I’ve traced patterns, grants, leaked documents, and research files. He’s responsible for the permanent transformations. We need to know more. Meet me tonight at the lake clearing.
By sunset, Jade arrived at the clearing where Alex, Rowan, Lira, and the others had gathered. Tail swishing, wings folding, they approached confidently. The group turned, dorsal fins, tails, and ears all alert.
Jade exhaled, scales glinting. “I’ve found him,” they said firmly. “Jonathan Doeson. He’s behind every transformation we’ve experienced. I don’t know why exactly—research? Experiments? Something bigger—but he’s the reason we exist as we are.”
Alex stepped forward, tail curling in concern. “So this… wasn’t random. This was planned?”
Jade nodded, claws flexing against the ground. “Exactly. And if he’s orchestrated it, there may be more of us out there. And possibly… more changes happening. We need to understand his plan—and fast.”
Lira’s fins flexed nervously. “Do we… confront him? Investigate further?”
Rowan’s ears twitched, tail swishing decisively. “First, we gather information. Second, we protect ourselves. And third… we make sure nothing like this happens without consent ever again.”
Jade looked at the group, wings twitching in anticipation. “I’ve already started. I can dig deeper, find his locations, trace his research. But we need to be careful. If he knows we’re onto him… things could get dangerous.”
Alex nodded, dorsal fin cutting a sharp silhouette against the twilight. “Then we move together. The Changed Ones. We’ve survived transformations. We’ve learned to live with them. Now it’s time to find answers.”
The lake reflected the group’s forms, tails, fins, wings, and all, shimmering under the fading light. For the first time, the mystery behind their permanence had a face—a name—and a goal. And The Changed Ones were ready to chase the truth.

Chapter 13: Tracing the Source
The clearing at the lake was quiet, but tension hummed in the air. Alex, Rowan, Lira, and the others gathered around Jade, who spread the tablet across a flat rock. Tail coiled tightly, wings flexing slightly, Jade’s eyes scanned the screen with precision.
“I’ve cross-referenced all the leaked research files, financial transfers, and patents,” Jade began. “Jonathan Doeson isn’t working alone. There’s a network—labs, test facilities, and private estates. And every major transformation, every permanent change, traces back to him.”
Lira leaned closer, fins brushing the tablet. “So… there are more like us out there?”
Jade nodded. “Yes. Thousands, maybe more. Some fully integrated, like us. Others… isolated, struggling to adjust. And it seems like he’s still experimenting, still expanding the project.”
Alex’s dorsal fin twitched. “That means he could be… changing people right now?”
“Exactly,” Jade said. “Which is why we need to act fast. But it’s not just about stopping him. We need to understand why—what he wants with these transformations, and how much he knows about us already.”
Rowan flicked their tail decisively. “Do we know where he is? Where his labs are?”
Jade swiped through the files. “I’ve pinpointed three primary locations. One in a coastal city—probably marine-focused experiments. One inland with heavy security, maybe terrestrial transformations. And a smaller, mobile lab that seems to move constantly. That one’s the trickiest.”
The group fell silent for a moment, each processing the enormity of what Jade had uncovered. The permanence of their forms, the number of affected individuals, and the mysterious, deliberate orchestration all pressed on them like a tangible weight.
Alex finally spoke, voice firm. “Then we start with the coastal lab. We’re strongest near water, and it’s likely where he’s experimenting on aquatic forms. If anyone’s in danger there… we can help.”
Jade’s tail flicked with determination. “I’ll handle surveillance. Find out guard patterns, security measures, entry points. Rowan and Lira can scout the surroundings and plan contingencies. Alex… you lead the team in-water if we need a direct approach.”
Lira nodded, fins flexing. “We’ll need stealth, coordination… and probably backup if more Changed Ones are at risk.”
Jade’s eyes narrowed, wings folding tighter. “We’ll reach them. And we’ll find Jonathan Doeson. We’ll know why this happened—and make sure no one else suffers without choice.”
The lake shimmered as the sun dipped behind the trees, casting long reflections of the group: tails swaying, dorsal fins and wings proud, determination sharp in every posture. For the first time, the permanence of their forms wasn’t just a challenge—it was their advantage. Their bodies, once seen as unusual or limiting, now gave them strength, speed, and resilience.
Alex exhaled, tail flicking with resolve. “Then it’s settled. We move together. We find him, and we get answers—for us, for everyone like us.”
Jade’s claws tapped the tablet decisively. “We start tonight. The Changed Ones have a mission now—and nothing will stop us.”

Chapter 14: The New Experiment
Jonathan Doeson leaned over the control console, fingers dancing across the interface with a precision born of obsession. His lab—JDLab B—buzzed with faint mechanical hums, screens displaying biometric data and genetic readouts.
“Another round,” he muttered, eyes gleaming. “Let’s see if we can improve… or intensify.”
On the platforms before him, ten subjects had been prepped for the latest experiment. Unlike previous cases, this one was designed to force complete quadrupedal adaptation: limbs rearranged, balance shifted, and physical instincts overwritten. Dragon-like necks, elongated tails, and fox-like bodies were emerging as the subjects were injected with the serum.
As the transformations began, Doeson watched coldly, taking meticulous notes. He barely blinked as limbs bent painfully, tails stretched out, and spines elongated unnaturally. One girl cried out as her posture shifted; a young man groaned, muscles and bones contorting. This was worse than any of his previous experiments.
“These adaptations will enhance mobility,” Doeson whispered, almost to himself. “Stronger, faster, and more controllable. Perfectly obedient—permanent.”
The subjects, now fully quadrupedal, staggered on four limbs. Scales, fur, and tails replaced familiar human features. Groans and whimpers echoed across the room. Some tried to speak but only managed strange hisses or growls. Doeson’s satisfaction was clinical, detached—but complete.

Meanwhile, miles away, the Changed Ones approached JDLab C under the cover of darkness. Alex’s tail flicked with careful precision, dorsal fin cutting the night air, while Lira and Rowan scouted the perimeter. Jade had hacked into the lab’s security network, opening doors and disabling cameras for their entry.
Inside, the lab smelled faintly of antiseptic and metal. Machines lined the walls, some running quietly, others silent but ominous. As they crept through the corridors, a sound caught their attention—a low growl, hesitant but human in tone.
From the shadows emerged a figure. Quadrupedal. Dragon-like. Long neck, large tail, scales glinting dimly under the emergency lighting. The creature froze when it saw the group.
“I… I’m Zach,” the dragon said quietly, voice trembling, tail twitching nervously. “I—I’ve been changed… like you, but…” He swallowed hard. “Mine… mine was worse.”
Alex stepped forward cautiously. “What happened?”
Zach lowered his head, long neck curling protectively. “I was… nineteen when it happened. They—they forced me into this form. Quadrupedal… everything about me had to change. I couldn’t stand upright. My limbs, my spine, my balance… everything. My tail… it’s huge. It’s hard to control. And the instincts—they—they… overrode me. I panicked. I ran. I crashed into walls. I tried to speak, but I couldn’t. My voice—my words—vanished. I… I felt trapped inside my own body.”
He shuddered, claws tapping lightly on the floor. “And it didn’t stop there. My senses—they’re different now. Heightened, overwhelming. Every sound, every scent, every movement… it’s too much. I can’t go back. It’s permanent. Forever.”
Lira’s fins flexed, empathetic. “We… we understand. We’ve been through changes too, but…”
Zach nodded, long tail flicking, eyes glistening. “I know. But yours… yours were… manageable. Mine… mine feels like I lost myself. My humanity, the way I moved, the way I saw the world… gone. I just… I want to survive. I want someone to understand.”
Alex reached forward, tail curling lightly in reassurance. “We do. That’s why we’re here. You’re not alone. We can help.”
Zach exhaled shakily, lifting his head. “I—I think… maybe we can.” His eyes glanced toward the lab doors. “But we have to be careful. Jonathan Doeson… he’s not here. He’s in JDLab B. But what he’s doing… he won’t stop. And he’s watching. Always watching.”
Jade nodded, claws tapping lightly. “Then we proceed. Carefully. Gather intel, make sure nobody else is trapped here. And we’ll find him—Doeson—and make him answer for this.”
Zach’s tail flicked with renewed determination. “Okay. I’ll… help. I know this lab better than anyone. I can guide you.”
Alex gave a small, encouraging smile. “Then let’s move. Together.”
The Changed Ones, now joined by Zach, advanced deeper into JDLab C. Outside, Jonathan Doeson continued his horrific experiments in JDLab B, unaware that one of his newest victims was now joining the group that would challenge him.

Chapter 15: Secrets of JDLab C
The corridors of JDLab C smelled of metal and antiseptic. Alex’s tail flicked nervously, dorsal fin cutting through the dim emergency lighting. Jade led the way, wings folding neatly as they moved, scanning for active surveillance. Rowan and Lira flanked them, muscles tense, ready to react. Zach padded beside them, quadrupedal dragon form low and steady, long tail brushing the walls.
“This lab is smaller than JD B,” Zach whispered. “But it’s… just as dangerous. There are guards, and the traps are subtle. Watch your step.”
The group moved cautiously. Machines lined the walls, some humming, some dormant but ominous. Strange cages and transformation pods were scattered, many empty, some containing equipment that glowed faintly.
A low whine echoed from one of the pods. Alex’s tail flicked. “Someone’s here,” they murmured.
From the shadows, a small quadrupedal figure emerged—fox-like, ears flat, trembling. They froze, eyes wide. Jade stepped forward gently.
“It’s okay,” Jade said softly. “We’re not here to hurt you. We’re… like you.”
The fox’s ears twitched, tail flicking nervously. “I… I’m scared,” they whispered. “I was… changed yesterday. They said… they were ‘improving me.’ I can’t walk properly yet. My instincts… everything is wrong.”
Zach stepped closer, voice low but reassuring. “I know exactly how that feels. I was nineteen when it happened to me. Quadrupedal, spine elongated, limbs rearranged… My tail is huge and uncontrollable, my senses are overwhelming, and for weeks, I panicked constantly. Every sound, every touch, every movement—it was too much. I couldn’t even speak properly. I… felt trapped inside my own body.”
Alex’s dorsal fin flexed as they listened, tail curling protectively. “We understand,” Alex said. “That’s why we’re here. To help you, and to stop this from happening to anyone else.”
The fox’s ears twitched, and they nodded slowly, swallowing hard. “Thank you… I didn’t know anyone else existed.”
Jade moved forward, tapping on a nearby terminal. “I’m accessing files. Let’s see who’s here, what experiments are ongoing, and where Doeson’s operations connect to. If we can map his network, we can rescue others—and find Doeson himself.”
As the group explored deeper, they discovered more pods and cages—some empty, others containing notes, recordings, and vials labeled for transformation. Each clue reinforced the horrifying scope of Doeson’s work. Quadrupedal, hybrid, and aquatic experiments—he hadn’t just changed them; he was building a system, a network of permanent altered beings, each cataloged, studied, and often left traumatized.
Zach led them past another corridor, long tail brushing lightly against the wall. “Some of them… didn’t survive. We need to be careful. But every room we clear, every person we help, it matters.”
Alex nodded, tail flicking decisively. “Then let’s move. We’ve come this far. No one else should have to endure what we have.”
The group pressed on, deeper into the lab, unaware that Jonathan Doeson was already aware of unusual activity at JDLab C. From his position in JDLab B, he watched monitors flicker, a thin smile forming. “Interesting,” he murmured. “They’ve begun to investigate. Let’s see how far they get.”
The Changed Ones, now joined by Zach and a growing sense of purpose, continued cautiously, ready to rescue trapped individuals, uncover evidence, and eventually confront the mastermind behind the permanent transformations.

Chapter 16: Rescues and Revelations
The fluorescent lights flickered as Alex, Jade, Lira, Rowan, and Zach moved through JDLab C. Every step was deliberate; tails, dorsal fins, and wings were carefully maneuvered to avoid triggering alarms or touching sensitive equipment.
From one corridor, soft whimpers echoed. Jade signaled the group to stop. “Someone’s here,” they whispered.
Peering around the corner, they saw a quadrupedal figure—dragon-like, smaller than Zach, limbs trembling, tail coiling nervously. The figure froze as Alex stepped forward, dorsal fin upright, tail flicking in a gentle greeting.
“It’s okay,” Alex said softly. “We’re here to help. You’re not alone.”
The dragon hesitated, eyes wide and glistening. “I… I’m Finn,” he whispered. “They… they changed me last night. I can’t… I can’t walk upright yet. My tail… it won’t obey me.”
Zach lowered his neck to Finn’s level. “I know how it feels. I’ve been changed too. Quadrupedal, tail huge, spine elongated… For weeks, I couldn’t move without panicking. But you’ll learn. We’ll help you.”
Finn blinked, tail twitching nervously. “Really?”
“Yes,” Lira said, stepping closer. “We’ve been through this too. We know how it feels to be trapped in a new body, to feel like the world is too big or overwhelming. But we can guide you.”
Jade’s claws tapped on a nearby terminal. “I’m mapping the lab’s layout and cross-referencing Doeson’s network. We’ve found coordinates for his other labs, research sites, and even travel routes he uses to transport subjects. If we rescue more people here, we can get them to safety and document everything.”
Rowan flicked their tail with determination. “Then we move fast. Every person we free is another life Doeson can’t control.”
Together, the group led Finn through the corridors, showing him how to maneuver quadrupedally, control his tail, and adjust to his new posture. Zach stayed close, guiding and reassuring, sharing techniques that had taken him weeks to master.
As they progressed, they discovered more pods, each containing individuals at different stages of transformation. Some were fully quadrupedal, some partially transformed, and others in earlier, unstable stages. Every rescue added urgency to their mission, and every rescued individual became another ally in understanding Doeson’s scope.
Jade’s terminal pinged with new data. “These records show Doeson’s operations extend to five countries. He’s experimenting across species, ages, and locations. This isn’t isolated—it’s global.”
Alex’s dorsal fin flexed. “Then our mission isn’t just here. It’s everywhere. And we have to stay ahead of him.”
The rescued individuals, slowly adjusting under the group’s guidance, began to move with more confidence. Tails flicked deliberately, limbs found their rhythm, and the lab’s oppressive atmosphere felt slightly lighter with each person freed.
Zach exhaled, tail flicking in relief. “We’re not just surviving anymore. We’re building strength, understanding, and a network that can fight back.”
As the Changed Ones continued through JDLab C, rescuing, documenting, and mapping, one truth became clear: Jonathan Doeson’s reach was vast, but the resilience, intelligence, and cooperation of the transformed could be stronger.
And for the first time, the group felt that the hunt for answers—and justice—was truly underway.

Chapter 17: Planning the Assault
The lake clearing was quiet, bathed in moonlight. Alex’s tail swayed methodically as they paced, dorsal fin cutting the night air, while Jade, wings folded neatly, tapped at the tablet displaying the mapped locations of Doeson’s labs. Rowan and Lira flanked the group, alert and ready, Zach coiled nearby, long neck low but eyes sharp. The rescued quadrupedal dragons and foxes watched, some trembling, some learning to control their new bodies.
“We’ve documented everything in JDLab C,” Jade began, claws tapping the tablet. “Pods, subjects, control systems. We know where the lab’s security weaknesses are, and we’ve got a clear path to JDLab B. But it’s heavily guarded—more than C. We’ll need coordination, speed, and precision.”
Alex flicked their tail, dorsal fin standing tall. “Our first priority is the rescued individuals. They stay hidden or accompany us if safe. We can’t risk them getting captured again.”
Zach’s long tail flicked, brushing against a log. “I know JDLab C’s ventilation and maintenance shafts. Some lead to B’s outer perimeter. We can use them to bypass some security systems, but we’ll still need someone agile to handle the doors and alarms.”
“That’s where I come in,” Jade said. “I can disable cameras, hack entry codes, and open doors remotely. But I’ll need support in case security patrols respond.”
Rowan flexed their tail. “We’ll cover Jade. Lira and I can handle any physical guards. Alex… you lead in-water approaches, flank routes, and quick strikes if needed.”
The group exchanged nods. Even the newly rescued quadrupeds, still adjusting, seemed to understand the gravity. Finn, small dragon with trembling limbs, tried a few steps forward. “I… I want to help,” he said softly, tail flicking cautiously.
Zach lowered his head to Finn’s level. “You can help by learning your new movements, staying calm, and following instructions. That alone will save lives.”
Alex crouched, tail coiling under them. “Jonathan Doeson won’t expect us to coordinate this many changed individuals. That gives us an edge, but we can’t underestimate him. He’s watched, studied, and experimented on all of us. We know he’s calculating, so every step must be precise.”
Jade pulled up schematics of JDLab B. “There are three main levels: the surface entry, labs and containment units in the middle, and his central control room at the top. That’s where we’ll find him. But we’ll likely encounter more quadrupedal or hybrid subjects—maybe even ones he’s still experimenting on. Be prepared to rescue or neutralize as needed.”
Lira flexed her fins, tail swaying deliberately. “We’ve learned a lot in C. We know how his tech works, how the transformations operate, and most importantly… we know each other. That’s our advantage.”
Zach flicked his tail once, long neck lifting. “And if anyone is trapped, scared, or panicking, we stay together. The Changed Ones are stronger united.”
Alex exhaled, tail curling decisively. “Then it’s settled. At dawn, we move toward JDLab B. Rescue, document, and confront Doeson. We do this carefully, smartly, and as a team.”
Jade’s claws tapped the tablet one last time. “Everyone ready?”
The group nodded, tails flicking, fins twitching, and wings flexing. The rescued quadrupeds and dragons braced themselves, newly strengthened and cautiously confident.
Alex smiled faintly, dorsal fin cutting the moonlight. “For everyone who’s been changed… it ends soon. Jonathan Doeson will answer for this.”
As the first pale light of dawn touched the lake, the Changed Ones prepared to move out, each step bringing them closer to the mastermind behind the permanent transformations—and to the confrontation that would decide their future.

Chapter 18: Infiltrating JDLab B
The air was thick with tension as the Changed Ones approached JDLab B. Alex’s tail swayed deliberately, dorsal fin cutting the early morning light, while Jade’s wings flexed as they scanned the perimeter for cameras and sensors. Rowan and Lira flanked the group, muscles coiled, alert. Zach led the rescued quadrupeds, moving low and careful, tail sweeping behind him.
Jade tapped rapidly on a tablet. “I’ve disabled the outer security grid temporarily. Cameras looped, doors unlocked—but only for ten minutes. Once we enter, we move fast.”
Alex exhaled, tail curling for balance. “Everyone knows the plan. Caution first, rescue second, confrontation last. Let’s move.”
They entered through a service hatch near the rear, emerging into a dim hallway lined with glass containment pods. Most were empty, but several contained newly transformed quadrupedal dragons, foxes, and other hybrids. Some trembled; others were pacing in confusion.
A small, fox-like subject froze as Alex approached. “I… I can’t walk upright,” they whispered, tail coiling nervously. “It hurts… everything hurts.”
Zach lowered his long neck. “I know,” he said softly. “It will take time, but we can help. Just focus on controlling your limbs, follow our movements.”
The group moved carefully, checking each pod. Some had automated restraints, others contained experimental devices feeding into the transformations. Alex flicked their tail to disable a locking mechanism while Jade manipulated the control panel, freeing one terrified dragon with quivering limbs.
“More of them,” Rowan whispered, tail flicking. “And the guards—he’s keeping some subjects for immediate testing.”
Lira flexed her fins, tail curling. “We neutralize without harming the changed. We’re rescuers first.”
They pressed forward, dodging patrolling guards and automated security drones. Alex and Zach guided the newly quadrupedal individuals through ventilation shafts and service corridors, demonstrating safe movement and coordinating with Jade’s remote access.
At the end of a long hallway, the group came to a large reinforced door. Jade checked the panel. “This leads to the main labs and containment units. Beyond here is where Doeson coordinates his experiments. More quadrupedal and hybrid subjects, likely in early transformation stages—maybe some still in pain, panicking.”
Alex’s dorsal fin flexed. “We need to be ready. Calm them, guide them, and stay together. We’ve come too far to lose anyone now.”
Zach exhaled, tail flicking decisively. “I know this lab. We’ll move efficiently, but we have to stay quiet. Doeson’s watching—even if he’s not here physically, systems will alert him.”
The group advanced into the main lab area. Machines whirred, glowing softly under dim lighting. Several new quadrupedal subjects backed against walls, tails curled protectively, trembling. Alex crouched, tail coiling, showing calm authority. “It’s okay,” they said. “We’re here to help. You’re safe now.”
One of the newly transformed dragons stepped forward cautiously. “I… I don’t know who you are. But… you’re helping?”
“Yes,” Jade said, voice firm. “We’re like you. We’ve been changed permanently too. And we’re going to get everyone out of here safely.”
As the rescued subjects began to trust them, Alex scanned the lab, dorsal fin rising with determination. Jonathan Doeson was close—but for now, the priority was rescue, coordination, and mapping his operations. Every freed subject, every controlled movement, brought the group closer to understanding the full scope of Doeson’s work—and to the confrontation that awaited.
The Changed Ones pressed forward, navigating JDLab B’s corridors, their tails, fins, and wings moving in careful harmony. Ahead lay more subjects, more secrets, and ultimately, the mastermind responsible for every permanent transformation.

Chapter 19: Confrontation in JDLab B
The central lab of JDLab B loomed ahead, reinforced glass and steel glinting under dim lights. Jade’s wings flexed as they analyzed the security grid. “Sensors show someone moving in the control room,” they whispered. “Could be Doeson—or automated systems.”
Alex’s tail swayed, dorsal fin cutting sharply through the corridor. “We move carefully. Our priority is the subjects first, then confronting him. Zach, guide the rescued quadrupeds. Rowan and Lira, watch for guards.”
Inside the main containment area, dozens of pods glowed faintly. Some held quadrupedal dragons, foxes, and hybrids mid-transformation. Many trembled, others clawed at restraints. Among them, one pod held a young girl, barely changed, human features distorted but recognizable. Her eyes widened as Alex approached.
“I—I’m Maren,” she whispered. “They… they said I’d never be the same.”
Alex crouched, tail curling protectively. “We’ll get you out. You’re not alone.”
Zach nudged the pod release mechanism with his snout, lifting the restraints safely. Maren’s limbs wobbled, tail coiling instinctively. Zach spoke gently. “It’s okay. Take it slow. We’ll help you adjust.”
Meanwhile, Jade guided the team to a side console. “I can loop surveillance and open doors to the control room. But once we enter, we’ll be visible. Doeson may engage automated defenses.”
Alex nodded. “We’re ready. This ends today.”
The doors slid open. Beyond them, Jonathan Doeson stood, calm, fingers hovering over a touchscreen. His eyes flicked to the group. “So… the Changed Ones finally arrive. I wondered when you’d discover me.”
Alex stepped forward, tail flicking, dorsal fin high. “We know what you’ve done. All the experiments, all the transformations. The peopl...