章 99: Academic Research

As the magic of the [Slave Contract] takes hold, Julia's eyes begin dimming. The fight was extinguished within her. She stands still, awaiting the man's command like a puppet with her strings in his hands.

"Now, let's see what this spell can really do," the tall man says with a voice that's devoid of emotion. He regards Julia with cold curiosity, like a scholar observing an experiment. His masked partner stands back, watching silently. I thought she would object, but I can feel a tinge of inquisitiveness from her as well… Things are not looking good for me.

He strides towards a padded couch and sits down comfortably. "Fetch me a glass of wine," he orders, testing her obedience. 

Julia moves with mechanical precision, retrieving a goblet and filling it with the deep red liquid. She returns and hands it to him without hesitation. He takes a sip, nodding slightly.

"Sing," he commands, "Something cheerful."