Elina arrived at her clinic in Magnus's main facility early that morning, her mind heavy with worry for Milo. She had left him hidden in her small apartment, hoping he'd be safe until she returned.
The clinic was already bustling with activity. Powered individuals with various injuries and ailments filled the waiting area. Elina sighed, steeling herself for another long day.
Her first patient was a man with severe burns covering his right arm. As she examined the wound, he explained sheepishly, "I was practicing with my fire ability. It... got out of hand."
Elina nodded sympathetically, her hands hovering over the burns as she channeled her healing energy. The man winced, then sighed with relief as the pain began to subside.
"I can heal the damage and ease the pain," Elina explained gently, "but I'm afraid the scarring will remain. Some injuries are beyond even my abilities to fully repair."
The man nodded, grateful despite the news. As Elina finished her treatment, she sensed a shift in the atmosphere of the clinic. Looking up, she saw Magnus entering, his presence causing a hush to fall over the room.
"Elina," Magnus called out, his tone even. "A word, if you please."
Elina's heart raced, but she kept her face calm as she excused herself from her patient and approached Magnus. He led her to a quiet corner of the clinic, his eyes never leaving her face.
"I hope you're finding your work here... fulfilling," Magnus began, his tone making it clear this was no casual conversation.
"It's important work," Elina replied cautiously. "I'm grateful for the opportunity to help others."
Magnus's smile didn't reach his eyes. "Indeed. Speaking of helping others, I couldn't help but notice you've taken in a... guest recently. A young boy, I believe?"
Elina felt her blood run cold, but she fought to keep her expression neutral. "Milo. He was alone, scared. I couldn't just leave him on the streets."
"How compassionate of you," Magnus said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "But you should know, Elina, that nothing happens in my Sanctuary without my knowledge."
He paused, letting the threat hang in the air before continuing. "However, I've decided that the child's ability might be of use after all. Floating, isn't it? Could be quite handy for certain... tasks."
Elina's fists clenched at her sides, anger and fear warring within her. "What do you want, Magnus?"
"It's simple, really," Magnus replied, his tone suddenly businesslike. "You and the boy will move into the facility. I'll provide suitable quarters, of course. The child will begin training to develop his abilities, and you... well, you'll be much closer to your work, won't you?"
"And if I refuse?" Elina asked, already knowing the answer.
Magnus's eyes hardened. "This isn't a choice, Elina. You've been far too defiant lately. I've given you too much freedom, and it's time to rein you in. Besides," he added, his voice lowering menacingly, "I'd hate for anything to happen to your young charge if you were to... disagree with my generosity."
Elina felt trapped, her mind racing to find a way out. But she knew, deep down, that she had no choice. For Milo's safety, and for her own, she would have to comply.
"When do we move?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Magnus's triumphant smile sent a chill down her spine. "I'll send someone to collect your things this afternoon. You'll be settled in by nightfall."
As Magnus turned to leave, he paused, looking back at Elina. "Oh, and Elina? Do remember that your continued well-being, and that of the boy, depends entirely on your cooperation. I trust we understand each other?"
Elina nodded silently, watching as Magnus strode out of the clinic. As the door closed behind him, she leaned against the wall, her legs suddenly weak.
She had wanted to be closer to the heart of the Sanctuary, to be in a better position to help bring about change. But not like this. Not as a virtual prisoner, with Milo's safety hanging in the balance.
As she returned to her patients, Elina's mind was a whirlwind of worry and determination. She would find a way to protect Milo and continue her work. The game had changed, but Elina was far from defeated. She would adapt, survive, and when the time came, she would fight.
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Under the Iron Fist
Fantasia(Updates Every Wednesday) In a world where people with extraordinary abilities are feared, a vast facility known as the Sanctuary has been created to contain and control these powerful individuals. This sprawling city-like prison is governed by the...
