Jacob flinched at the mention of what had been done, arms wrapping around his middle as if to keep his chest from falling apart any more. In all of his years, never had anyone managed to get their hands on him and take him apart so fully and completely. Much of it has obviously been fueled by scientific curiosity, yet part of Jacob was certain it had been psychological warfare as well. Probably for no other reason than to make sure their subject would not even try to resist — and it had worked.

With a forced bemused expression, Jacob turned to Abel. "I'm awake now. Why a few days?"