Randle Upton directs Upton Laboratory, researching a drug designed to turn non-NEXT individuals into NEXT. His project shifts focus after colleague Mattia accidentally creates a mixture that amplifies existing NEXT powers.

Facing funding withdrawal threats from sponsor Sigourney Rosicky over stalled progress, Randle pushes forward. During a demonstration, he attempts to inject a coworker but accidentally injects himself when the coworker moves. This mishap triggers an unforeseen reaction, greatly enhancing his previously minimal NEXT ability.

Sigourney then orders Randle to test the drug on Gregory Sunshine, a NEXT prisoner serving a life sentence. She demands data collection regardless of risks, declaring Gregory’s life worthless. Randle oversees further injections despite ethical qualms.

His laboratory becomes a base for Ouroboros operations, used by Sigourney and Nicolai Brahe to advance their objectives. Fugan and Mugan later receive the power-enhancing drug there under Sigourney’s orders, despite Nicolai’s safety protests.