The General walked in to see Dr. Frankenbaum sitting at his desk. “General Ryker,” Frankenbaum greeted, quickly rising to his feet, his voice tight. “What brings you here at this hour?” Ryker said nothing at first. Instead, he closed the door behind him with a slow, deliberate click, the metallic sound slicing through the silence. He strode forward, his black leather trench coat swaying with each step, then eased himself into the chair opposite the doctor like he owned the room. He lit a tobacco cigarette, briefly illuminating his cold eyes. He took in a heavy drag before releasing the white smoke out of his mouth. “How's the bioweapon progressing?” he asked, his voice low and blunt. Frankenbaum adjusted his glasses, trying to maintain composure. “Very well. All core systems are stable. We are on track to complete the final phase in about three weeks.” he replied. “That won't do.” Ryker cut in sharply, before taking another drag of the cigarette and exhaling. We're moving t

“I need some sort of distraction. Call Rex and tell him to come meet me immediately.” William said before ending the call. About fifteen minutes later, Rex pulled up with three of his men. He stepped out of the vehicle, adjusting his jacket as he approached William with a calm, confident stride. “We're here, sir. What do you need us to do?” Rex asked, eyes scanning the area instinctively. “I need to get into that building,” William said, nodding toward the warehouse in the distance. “And I need someone to distract the guards so I can slip in and out without anyone noticing,” he added. Rex cracked his knuckles and grinned. “We’ll handle it.” He motioned for his men to follow, then leaned toward William. “Give us three minutes.” William nodded and melted into the shadows behind a line of parked trucks. Rex and his men strolled up toward the main road that ran parallel to the warehouse. A moment later, two of them began arguing loudly and dramatically. One shoved th

The explosion roared through the air, a fireball erupting from the fourth-floor windows. Glass and debris scattered across the street and sirens wailed in the distance. Inside the van, Jayden flinched and buried his face in his mother’s coat. She whispered, “It’s okay, baby. It’s over.” William glanced at her. “No. It’s just beginning. But you’re free now. Both of you.” Mia looked at him, her eyes brimming with tears. “They’ll think we’re dead?” William nodded. “By the time the fire department gets in, the place will be burnt beyond recognition. “The bone residue I left would confirm that they were people inside, but they won't be able to identify it. Ryker will definitely think you're dead.” William added. Mia swallowed. “But if they find out…” “They won’t,” William said firmly. She nodded, gripping her son tightly. “Thank you for rescuing us.” Meanwhile, back at the apartment was total chaos. The guards guarding the outside of the building were in shock. The guards sta

Natasha folded her arms and leaned against a metal table. “So let me get this straight. You plan to turn Ryker’s right-hand men against him?” William nodded without hesitation. She scoffed lightly. “That’s suicide. Thomford and Rayner are practically glued to his boots.” “They're loyal,” William said, “because Ryker has made them promises, but if they think he’s going to betray them…“ “They won’t take it well,” Natasha finished slowly. William turned and opened a hard case resting on the crate beside him. Inside was the AI mask. Matte black with subtle sensors lining the surface. He lifted it out gently and showed it to Natasha “This is how we make them doubt Ryker.” Natasha frowned, looking confused. “A mask? How’s that going to help” “It’s more than just a mask,” William said. “This mask the ability to perform facial mimicry and voice modulation” She crossed her arms. “So you are going to pretend to be someone?” “Not just anyone” William put on the mask and t

The underground facility buzzed with tension. Soft lights lined the ceiling casting a glow on the polished concrete floors. There were armed guards who stood along the walls, still and focused. Seated were some of the world’s most dangerous men. Crime bosses, black market arms dealers, and paramilitary leaders. These were men who mostly lived in the shadows. Ryker walked into the room where Dr. Frankenbaum was making preparations for the showcase. The Dr. was being watched by two guards. His lab coat was neatly pressed but his face looked pale. Ryker stepped closer to him, his voice low and menacing. “I assume the weapon is ready?” Frankenbaum gave a sharp nod. “Yes, General. The compound has been synthesized and all systems are functioning.” Ryker’s eyes narrowed slightly. “Good. Because if it doesn’t work, you know the consequences.” Dr. Frankenbaum swallowed hard. “You said if it works, I’d be free to leave. That I’d get my wife and children back.” Ryker’s lips curled in