Fourteen years earlier...…
Ernest Bolt, his salt-and-pepper hair neatly combed, tapped a pen against the polished wood of the conference table. The air was heavy with thoughts and tension.
"Project Phoenix," Ernest began, his voice firm but laced with a hint of unease. "As you all know, this is unlike anything we've ever attempted. We're pushing the boundaries of science, with a power source with the potential to change the world."
He gestured towards a holographic display showing above the table, showcasing intricate designs and pulsing energy fields.
Dr. Penelope Simmers, the project's lead researcher, a woman with sharp blue eyes cleared her throat.
"But with great power comes great responsibility," she said, her voice edgy. "The prototype, as you know, is incredibly volatile. We've implemented several safety measures, but…"She trailed off, her gaze flitting nervously around the table. Dr. Evelyn Walsh, a young, enthusiastic physicist, piped up.
"But what if it falls into the wrong hands, Dr. Simmers? What if someone with less… noble intentions tries to weaponize it?"
A collective murmur of agreement rippled through the room. Ernest, his brow furrowed, knew their concerns were well-founded. One of the investors, Arthur Beckley, had been particularly inquisitive lately, his questions bordering on blatant prying.
"We've considered that," he said, "The prototype is housed in a secure axis, no one gets in with unauthorized access. Additionally, the activation sequence requires biometric confirmation from each of you, the project leads."
He paused, letting the weight of his words sink in. Still, worries filled the air. Ernest knew their worries were justified. The potential for misuse was too great to ignore.
Later that evening, after the researchers had left, Ernest still in his office, with Penelope, his trusted head researcher, a woman of quiet strength sat curled up in an armchair, a data pad on her lap.
"Ernest," she began, she could see his anxiety in his eyes
"Something's not right."
Ernest nodded, his voice heavy with concern. "Arthur Beckley. His questions… they're too pointed, too persistent. It's like he's fishing for something."
Penelope rose, her emerald eyes flashing with curiosity. "We need to identify and plug any potential leaks. Have you reviewed the access protocols recently?"
Ernest sighed, rubbing his temples. "Everything's in order. Biometric scans, retina verification… the only way in is through the designated personnels, just like I said in the meeting."
"There has to be a missing piece," Penelope insisted, her voice firm. "A safety measure we can count on that would act as an additional layer of protection, a last resort in case the prototype falls into the wrong hands."
They spent the next hour brainstorming, tossing ideas back and forth.