Hope Des doesn't permanently lose the ability to enjoy tea. That would be grimdark.

I hope Des comes out of this OK.

The Librarian poking fun at the "torturers" was pretty funny.

I'm surprised that anyone else has read the Culture series around here.

Of course, with medical being the hypercompetent place that it is, Des will be fine... but in what form?

I don't think you quite went anywhere near actual grimdark. Being cyberized seems to be quite normal for that universe, and sooner or later, it's going to happen to an agent. I think what you wrote is more like the non-action parts of an action movie--a good one, where they don't count on the special effects to carry the story. And the Librarian's predicament... well, it seems like he was quite buoyed by the sheer stupidity of his captors! Count on him to take that kind of thing as a morale boost.

So, Des may be in a little trouble, it seems. I'm hoping they can undo whatever cybernetics were done to him, but something tells me it won't be completely reverted (because that would be no fun).

However! Great interlude, great read!

On a somewhat more different note, goodness how you've improved.

Indeed a bit dark, but still had humorous moments.