No. 7 Wisteria Lane, underground laboratory.
Gaga stood in the center of the newly constructed Shadow Array, its wings fully spread, the edges of its feathers gleaming with a dark luster.
The surrounding Shadow Energy began to stir. Shadows writhed like living things, seeping from the walls, the floor, and the ceiling.
Finally, they converged around Gaga, forming a swirling, dark vortex.
"Ian, are you ready, gaga?"
Gaga's voice had become deep, carrying the unique echo of the shadows.
Ian stood beside the little fellow, his dark gray Long Robe stirring though there was no wind. Deep within his pupils, three Star Orbits slowly rotated.
"Let's begin."
Gaga's wings beat fiercely. The dark vortex suddenly expanded, completely engulfing the man and the bird.
The surrounding light vanished in an instant.
The walls, the lab bench, the Crystal Stone Lamp—all familiar objects became hazy gray silhouettes.
Ian looked down at his hand.
