Experiments

What followed were a few weeks of interminable experiments. Michael had become a glorified lab rat, playing at the mercy of Shadow's whims. And he hated it.

It started with a few blood samples. But whatever Shadow had found, it mustn't have been enough.

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There wasn't a trace of light in Michael's bloodstream. Shadow half-expected that, but was still disappointed. She would have to dig deeper to find something. She'd have to go deep enough to reach the magic paths. And that would be a nuisance, as she'd need to prepare a bit more.

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She left him with radio silence for a week or so. And he spent those lucky days doting on his family. Being a lab rat did pay off, literally. Michael might have enough money to buy some rent for a better house soon. If he survived whatever Shadow had in store for him next.

And then she came back. As he was lead to a table laced with four shackles, he grimaced, knowing this wouldn't end well for him.