This is Test Subject 013. Out of the 100 test rats from the original trials, he was one of just a handful to survive the operation that implanted a radio transceiver into the left frontal lobe of his brain. Originally meant to control dopamine levels in regard to goal oriented tasks, the implanted section of the receiver was made up of a bioengineered 'mesh' that would integrate with the brain's outer neuro pathways, in essence becoming an instant faux-pathway net. What the scientists didn't expect was for the mesh's genetic makeup to alter, ultimately syncing with the rats' own biology.

Each stimulation caused a small, sudden growth of the net, extending deeper into the frontal lobe and slowly forging new pathways into the parietal and temporal lobes. Under the constant close observation of the scientists, it wasn't hard to detect the odd behaviours cropping up amongst the rats, particularly at night when the lab was empty.

That's when things took a turn for the worse. The rats were separated. More secure cages were put in place. And testing soon became dissection. The reason for the behaviours must be found, and the brain must hold the answers. Thirteen was slated for the operating table. Had it not been for the new assistant, he would have been doomed. Antoine hadn't much experience with rodents. And these were trained rats after all. He didn't think he needed gloves, much to the misfortune of his index finger.

Not the most glamorous of escapes, but it did the trick. For months now he's survived in the few cracks and crevices of the sterile lab environment, living off crumbs, hoarding items, forging equipment to help him in the world. And now he's ready to find a way out, to freedom.

Art is by the supremely superb Flinters over on FA. ^..^