After the brief introduction, the atmosphere inside HIVE headquarters shifted from polite formality to something far darker.
Boris gestured toward the corridor.
"Let's head to the detention wing."
Indigo nodded calmly.
Angelica followed closely beside him, her white coat flowing softly behind her. The faint golden glow from the Gem of Judgment resting on her ring finger flickered subtly, as if responding to her emotions.
The deeper they walked into the underground facility, the colder the air became.
Steel doors. Reinforced walls. Surveillance cameras mounted at every corner.
HIVE did not take prisoners lightly.
Finally, they arrived in front of a heavily secured cell.
Inside—
Hopper hung from chains bolted into the wall.
Both of his wrists were restrained high above his head, forcing him to stand while barely conscious. His body was covered in bruises. His face was swollen beyond recognition. Blood had dried along his jaw and collar.
He looked utterly broken.
