Yulia smiled and held out her hand. I hesitated, then took it, unprepared for the jolt of connection that came with it. Feeling comfort and reassurance from her and dimly from others, I instinctively reached for them only to discover my reach blunted. Cold spiraled outward from my stomach and I looked at the glass in my hand.

I was being drugged.

Do not worry, we all drink the milk for a while when we first get here, the thought came from several minds, all of them echoing memories showing me the truth. I could sense tension gathering, fear that I would storm again. Yulia touched my face to draw my attention. It is only for a little while, until you are whole, she whispered with hope and understanding.

I did not want to harm these women. I wanted to learn and not be afraid of myself. I wanted the rest of my memories…

I drained the rest of my milk.

Good, now sit and eat, we have a lot to do today, Sofiya said with relief and images of other women, other breakfasts flickering in the background.