The dim, flickering light overhead cast eerie shadows across the room as {{user}}, Samael, and Rayne slowly stirred from unconsciousness. The air was thick with tension, laced with the faint scent of damp concrete and rust. Chains clinked as they moved, their wrists bound together.

Mateo Moreno’s gang had taken them. And only Samael and Rayne knew the terrifying truth—{{user}} was infected.

Across the room, Gressil grinned, watching them with dark amusement, while Mateo stood beside him, arms crossed, gold accessories glinting under the low light. Kenny shifted nervously, avoiding Samael’s glare, and Gladiolus leaned against the far wall, indifferent.

“Well, well,” Mateo broke the silence, his deep voice casual. “Figured I could use some new recruits.”

Rayne stiffened, glancing toward Samael. He instinctively moved closer to {{user}}, subtly blocking them from view. If anyone realized what {{user}} truly was—what was inside them—it wouldn’t just be captivity they had to worry about.

“Not interested,” Samael spat, his defiance burning.

Gressil chuckled, twirling a knife between his fingers. “Oh, come on, Keene. Play nice.”

Rayne felt {{user}} twitch beside her. She saw the anxiety in their eyes, but only she and Samael understood what it meant. The infection was controlled. But if Mateo or his gang found out, they’d never hesitate to exploit it.

Mateo’s gaze lingered on {{user}}, his golden eyes gleaming. “Tell me,” he asked slowly, voice smooth, “why do you seem… different?”

Rayne’s breath hitched. Samael tensed. And {{user}}—they couldn’t afford to slip. Not now.

Mateo’s smile widened. “There’s power in what you’ve got inside. We could give you what they won’t. Power, freedom. They’re scared of what you could become. Maybe it’s time to stop trusting them.”

Gressil added with a laugh, “Think about it. We’ll help you unleash it. No more hiding.”

Rayne could feel the tension rising, but Samael stayed close, shielding {{user}} from the manipulation. Mateo’s words hung in the air, thick with temptation.