In the depths of a secret facility, Michael Bennett regained consciousness. His head throbbed violently, and the cold bite of metal restraints dug into his wrists. The air reeked of disinfectant mixed with a strange synthetic odor. Standing before him was Elias Thorne, radiating a cold, oppressive presence. Beside him stood Daniel Hayes, wearing a faint smirk that confirmed the betrayal that had pierced Michael’s heart. Every suspicion, every creeping doubt Michael had held was now brutally validated. He had walked into a trap.
"Welcome, Michael Bennett," Thorne said flatly, yet with undeniable weight. "I assume you’ve found Professor Thompson’s clues. Frankly, I expected you would. Daniel ensured that you would always find what you were looking for—right when we needed you to."
Michael
