Umbrella, main experimental building.
The researchers, usually busy with work, had all set aside their dull experimental tests and formed a loose line. When Dr. Connors walked through the doors, warm applause erupted at just the right moment.
With a bang, Gwen, hiding among the crowd, popped a party cannon. Colorful confetti shot into the air. Dr. Connors froze in place, only reacting a few seconds later. His eyes reddened slightly as he took off his glasses and wiped them, then sincerely thanked his colleagues around him.
"Doctor, congratulations on finally fulfilling the greatest wish of your life." Sean looked at the smiling Dr. Connors. In the original timeline, this disabled scientist had devoted himself to researching cross-species genetics in order to solve the problem of regenerating severed limbs.
Based on lizards' ability to regrow their tails, the middle-aged doctor had found his research direction and developed a new serum containing lizard DNA. However, genetic rejection had triggered severe side effects. Although Dr. Connors had regrown his arm, he had also become a half-man, half-lizard monster.
But Connors' fate was completely different now. Back then, Osborn Industries had been in crisis, forcing him to risk experimenting on himself. Cross-species genetics had not been mature at the time and contained many hidden dangers, which was why he had become the infamous Lizard.
Sean's intervention had changed the other man's difficult, tragic life. After joining Umbrella, Dr. Connors had enough time and energy to refine his research. With unrestricted funding and a top-tier scientific team, this disabled scientist could devote himself to science without a care.
"...There was no need to make such a big fuss." Connors was somewhat at a loss.
"This wasn't my idea." Sean pointed at the blonde girl giggling in the crowd and ruthlessly sold out his teammate.