"How many are they, Sebastian?" Director General Cagney's voice echoed in the room, directed towards her loyal butler, Sebastian.
Sebastian, with a somber expression, sat in his chair, surrounded by the Director General, her uncle, and the other board of directors of the Organization.
"According to the outside investigator, 56 people have already been abducted, and they are heading to the country of the Philippines." Sebastian answered while slightly bowing his head to have respect for the mad director. He knows that the director is thinking of a solution.Â
All the people in the room whispered among themselves as the number of abductions in their area continued to rise. Tiero Salve was an independent country, untouched by external interference except for the two Organizations.
The difference, however, was that many coveted their country due to its natural wealth, filled with various precious stones such as gold and diamonds, which were casually displayed outside the houses of the citizens. Despite this, they lacked education and the ability to create advanced technology to streamline their production processes for their desired products to sell to other countries.
Director General Cagney's face darkened further as she processed Sebastian's report. Her fingers tapped rhythmically on the polished surface of the table. She turned to her uncle, a seasoned diplomat known for his astute negotiations, and spoke in a low but commanding voice, "Uncle Marco, we need to act swiftly. The lives of these people and the stability of Tiero Salve are at stake."
Uncle Marco nodded gravely. "We must engage in dialogue immediately with the abductors. We need to understand their demands and motivations," he suggested, his years of diplomatic experience guiding his words.
Meanwhile, the board of directors exchanged worried glances. They knew that this crisis could escalate rapidly if not handled with precision. One of the directors, a strategist known for her analytical mind, spoke up, "We also need to consider our options for intervention. Perhaps reaching out to neighboring countries or international organizations for support could strengthen our position."
Director General Cagney absorbed these inputs, her mind racing with strategies and plans of action. "Sebastian, contacted our intelligence network. I want to know everything about these abductors, their backgrounds, and any possible connections," she instructed.
Sebastian, ever the loyal and efficient butler, nodded briskly and left the room to carry out his orders.Â
But before Sebastian left, she had already decided that if no one took action, she would do it herself. This issue has been circulating for almost five years but no one ever dares to solve it, even the government of Tiero Salve.Â
"Uncle," she called to her uncle as they exited the Organization building. "Let's talk when we get home. I have something important to discuss with you."
Her uncle remained silent, but in his mind, he anticipated that his niece would once again do something unexpected. It was typical of her.
"Renese Morgan Cagney!" her uncle warned upon hearing her plan. He used her full name to express his anger.
She gave him a look before sighing. "I can't just sit there while our people are being abducted to a foreign country, Uncle. Besides, our plans always come to a halt because of the Prime Minister's decisions. He's always stopping us from taking action because he's a goddamn coward."
Her uncle remained silent, well aware of the Prime Minister's character. He was afraid of drawing attention to their country, so he was cautious, even though their people were being turned into a source of slavery. In the eyes of other nations, being born in Tiero Salve was considered fortunate due to the country's wealth and the natural variety of hair colors that resembled the colors of the crystals found in their land.
"I understand your frustration, but you cannot take matters into your own hands," Uncle Marco replied sternly. "We must follow diplomatic protocols and work within the framework of our government. Acting impulsively will only lead to chaos."
Director General Cagney clenched her fists." Uncle, with all due respect, diplomatic protocols have failed us for years. We cannot afford to wait any longer while innocent lives are at risk. I'm willing to take the necessary steps to rescue our people and protect Tiero Salve."
Uncle Marco sighed heavily, realizing the depth of Renese's resolve. "Very well, but promise me you'll proceed cautiously. We can't afford any missteps or rash actions that could backfire."
Renese nodded firmly,"I promise, Uncle. I'll gather intel, form a strategic plan, and ensure that every move is calculated. But I won't let fear and indecision paralyze us any longer."
Uncle Marco placed a hand on Renese's shoulder. "Just be careful, Renese. The path you're choosing is fraught with risks, but if anyone can navigate it, it's you."
Renese turned to head back inside, her mind already racing with plans and possibilities. She knew the road ahead would be difficult, but she was ready to fight for her people and her country, no matter the cost.
After the investigation of the enemy's background, she informed the second person who would step back and rule the Organization in the meantime, and it's because it's the people of Tiero Salve they're talking about that she had to go to the Prime Minister for confirmation.Â
Renese immediately took action. She called upon Roderick, the second-in-command of the Organization, a person she trusted for his calm thinking and strategic mindset. "Roderick, I need you to take charge and oversee the Organization while I'm away. We're facing a critical situation, and I must take action."
Roderick, fully aware of the gravity of the situation, agreed, understanding Renese's plan. "Understood, Director Cagney. I will ensure that operations run smoothly and efficiently in your absence."
After their conversation, Renese proceeded with arranging a meeting with the Prime Minister. She knew that this meeting was crucial, as she needed the government's support and resources to effectively implement her plans.
The meeting with the Prime Minister was tense. Renese presented the gathered intelligence on the abductors, emphasizing the imminent threat to Tiero Salve and its people. She passionately argued for decisive action, stressing the need to prioritize the safety and well-being of their citizens over political hesitations.
At first, the Prime Minister hesitated, expressing his concerns. "Renese, I understand your worries, but we must proceed with caution. Any mistake could have serious consequences for our nation."
Renese stood her ground. "Prime Minister, we cannot afford to be passive in the face of such terrible acts. Our people depend on us to protect them. I urge you to support our efforts and authorize the necessary actions to confront this threat directly."
After carefully considering her arguments, the Prime Minister finally agreed to provide logistical and diplomatic support for Renese's mission. "Very well, Director Cagney. I will trust your judgment in this matter. Keep me updated on any developments, and may we succeed in bringing our people back safely."