"So, Dr. Gina, what's your theory about the number two S-3 chip from Range?" came the voice of Dr. Hui Nia, the head clinical researcher, her tone sharp and probing.
Gina straightened slightly, her expression turning serious.
"Ma'am, based on my research and analysis of the chip's data, I can confirm it has a clear connection to an otherworldly mecha," she responded with respect but without hesitation, her words deliberate and cold.
"Is that so?" Dr. Hui's voice was icy, almost challenging as if she were testing Gina's conclusions.
Her gaze flickered across the holographic screens, eyes narrowing in scrutiny.
"We'll need concrete proof," Dr. Hui added, her face looming large on the massive screen, flanked by other leaders of the headquarters, all awaiting Gina's findings.
Gina didn't flinch.
"Of course, ma'am. Based on my recent data analysis, the chip is emitting a signal we couldn't initially track." She tapped on the screen, pulling up layers of code and visuals for the panel to see.
"However, after updating my locator device, the signal trajectory became clearer... and it's pointing upwards. I'm sure you understand the implications of that, ma'am."
Dr. Hui's eyes flickered with interest, though her expression remained unreadable.
She leaned forward slightly, intertwining her fingers beneath her chin, her elbows resting on the desk.
"I see... Well then, Dr. Gina," she said softly, yet with a subtle edge, acknowledging Gina's insight.
"Any chance the other test subjects might show similar signs?" Dr. Hui asked, her eyes narrowing as she surveyed the room.
The rest of the leaders remained quiet, their attention sharply focused on Gina, awaiting her response.
Gina felt the weight of their collective gaze but maintained her composure.
"So far, based on my analysis, the chips in the other subjects don't exhibit the same level of... sophistication," she said carefully.
"It's clear that Tomi's chip is superior, and I strongly believe it's connected to a mechanism beyond our planet."
Dr. Hui's cold eyes flickered with a hint of intrigue.
"I see... very well then," she replied, leaning back slightly in her chair, satisfied with the information she had extracted.
She glanced away from Gina, her voice carrying authority as she addressed the room. "The floor is now open to the rest of you."
Breaker, one of the ten senior leaders, leaned forward in his seat, the holographic image of his stern face flickering on the screen.
"That was a valuable insight, Gina," he acknowledged, his tone gruff.
"Now, back to the boy. Did he agree to the relocation along with his captain and the rest of his team?" Breaker's gaze bore into Gina, awaiting her confirmation.
Gina nodded briskly.
"Yes, sir. I've made all the necessary arrangements for their transfer to the installation per Malik's request," she said, though a flicker of concern crossed her face.
She hesitated for a moment before speaking again. "However, if I may, sir... Malik's nature—his methods—could be an issue."
Breaker's eyes narrowed slightly, urging her to continue.
"You know how Malik operates. His harsh, cold demeanor may push Tomi in the wrong direction. If not handled properly, he could become more of a threat than an asset," Gina warned, her voice steady but laced with caution.
She knew Malik's rigid approach could exacerbate Tomi's inner turmoil, possibly leading him down a darker path.
Breaker studied her for a long moment, the tension thick in the air.
"Malik has his ways, but I trust his judgment," he finally replied, though his tone hinted at a willingness to listen further. "We'll monitor the situation closely."